Man Utd looking to hijack Roma’s move for Santos striker Marcos Leonardo after switching transfer strategy
MANCHESTER UNITED are reportedly looking to hijack Roma’s move for striker Marcos Leonardo.
This comes as United have changed their transfer strategy following the decision to axe Mason Greenwood.
The Red Devils have long been linked with a move for midfielder Sofyan Amrabat from Fiorentina.
But now priorities have shifted towards finding a new striker to replace Greenwood.
Club chiefs decided to let Greenwood continue his career elsewhere, following an investigation into his behaviour after his January 2022 arrest.
And it looks like Erik ten Hag’s side have now identified Marcos Leonardo as an ideal replacement.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Manchester United are planning to swoop in and steal Leonardo from Roma.
The talented attacker was recently in talks to join the Serie A club on a permanent deal from Santos.
However, the Brazilian side opposed the transfer as they battle to avoid relegation.
But Roma – who are managed by former United boss Jose Mourinho – have been working on an agreement for Leonardo’s move to become official in January 2024.
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At just 20 years old, Leonardo is already approaching 50 senior goals for Santos.
The report claims the Red Devils are ready to submit a higher bid than Roma’s: £17m fixed fee plus £4.2m in add-ons.
However, United also need to raise funds to meet Financial Fair Play regulations having spent almost £370m under Ten Hag.
United have been heavily linked with a move for Amrabat since last year’s World Cup.
The midfielder impressed as one of Morocco’s key man during their historic run to the semi-finals.
But talks stalled due to United’s need to sell players in order to fund the deal.
Greenwood is now in line for a £10million-a-year-deal in Saudi Arabia.