Man Utd: £130m star 'negotiating today over new deal' amid Old Trafford links

Manchester United target Rafael Leao has been ‘in negotiations’ over a new AC Milan contract today and the release clause written into his current deal will need to be removed if the Old Trafford giants do not want to pay a record fee, according to transfer insider Dean Jones.

Paul Pogba is the most expensive acquisition in the Red Devils’ history, but that could change in the months ahead.

According to The Sun, Leao is high on Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag’s shortlist of targets ahead of next summer’s transfer window.

The report suggests the Red Devils sent scouts to watch the 11-cap Portugal international in action for AC Milan earlier this month and, amid additional interest from Manchester City and Chelsea, it is hoped a deal worth £60million could be struck.

It is understood that Leao has entered the final two years of his San Siro contract, which includes a release clause worth in the region of £130million.

However, AC Milan are looking to agree fresh terms and they were due to hold discussions with the winger's father at the Ballon d'Or ceremony earlier this week.

The Serie A side are reportedly pushing to speed up contract negotiations with Leao amid fears Manchester United are plotting a move.

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Jones understands that Leao and his representatives were due to hold talks with AC Milan over a new long-term agreement today.

The journalist is aware that the 23-year-old has a lucrative release clause included in his current deal, which Manchester United will be hoping is removed if he signs on the dotted line.

When asked for an update on Leao's situation, Jones told GIVEMESPORT: "He is in negotiations