Man Utd should push for Milan star in swap as Rashord move nears, says Yorke

Dwight Yorke says Manchester United should push for a swap deal involving Rafael Leão if Marcus Rashford completes AC Milan move.

Rashford, who has publicly expressed his desire for a "new challenge," has been sidelined by United manager Ruben Amorim and hasn’t featured in the last six Premier League matches—aside from being an unused substitute against Newcastle.

Reports indicate Rashford’s representatives have held discussions with Milan about a potential transfer.

Yorke, a key figure in United's treble-winning squad of 1999, believes an exchange for Leão could benefit both clubs. Speaking to Coin Casino, Yorke said: "I’m not sure why AC Milan want Marcus Rashford since they already have Rafael Leão, who plays in the same position.

"Clubs like AC Milan don’t bring in high-profile players to sit on the bench; Rashford would be signed to start. Maybe Manchester United should negotiate for Rafael Leão in return, but he’d need to fit into Ruben Amorim’s system and deliver results."

Leão, a product of Sporting CP’s academy—like Amorim—could be a natural fit for the Portuguese manager.

The 25-year-old winger, who has made 37 appearances for Portugal, has been a standout performer for Milan and is valued at £63 million, according to Transfermarkt.

Despite rumours of his potential departure in the past, Milan are in a strong position to retain Leão as he’s contracted until 2028 and has no release clause.

Under new Milan manager Sergio Conceição, who shares Portuguese roots with Leão, the club will likely push to keep their star player at least until the end of the season.

Leão has been pivotal for Milan this campaign, contributing seven goals and seven assists in 25 appearances across all competitions, maintaining his consistency from recent seasons, where he averaged 15 goals per year.

Rashford, on the other hand, mirrors Leão’s output, although his statistics are bolstered by a standout 30-goal season in 2022/23.

United are reportedly reluctant to sell Rashford to a Premier League rival and are focusing on interest from clubs abroad. They’ll hope potential suitors, such as Milan, consider his peak form when negotiating a deal.

Adding urgency to United's need for left-wing reinforcements is speculation linking Alejandro Garnacho with a move to Napoli.

The Argentine winger has been identified as a target to replace Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who is reportedly close to joining Paris Saint-Germain.

If Rashford leaves for Milan and Garnacho departs for Naples, United may find themselves in a precarious position on the left flank.

A move for Leão could help fill the void and add a proven talent to Amorim’s squad, but it remains to be seen if Milan would entertain such a swap.