Transfer news: Man United set to make shock swoop for 16-goals Brazilian striker after choosing Old Trafford as his next destination in January

Transfer news: Man United set to make shock swoop for 16-goals Brazilian striker after choosing Old Trafford as his next destination in January

The Italian website says that the Red Devils and Nottingham Forest have entered the race to sign the Brazilian striker from Santos, but a move to Italy is the likeliest outcome at the moment.

Leonardo is only expected to cost €15m (£13m) but it is still slightly surprising that Erik ten Hag’s side are after another forward, with the club closing in on a deal for Atalanta’s Rasmus Hojlund

The £72m transfer is set to be finalised this weekend, with the Danish international having completed his medical ahead of signing a five-year contract.

However, recruiting Hojlund doesn’t completely rule out United from going into the market for a second striker.

United’s original plan was to sign two forwards this summer
A few months ago, it was suggested that the Red Devils wanted to bring in a younger striker, in addition to a more experienced number nine.

At the time, though, it was suggested that Hojlund would be the youngster, with someone like Harry Kane being snapped up as well. That was never really a realistic ambition, considering how much the two of them would cost.

Leonardo, on the other hand, is seemingly available for a reasonable fee and that is likely the reason United have considered a move for the Brazilian.

A Martial replacement?
Even with Hojlund being signed, you don’t want the Dane having to play week in, week out, as it would put too much pressure on the young player. Naturally, you would want his understudy to carry some of the weight.

Due to Anthony Martial’s fitness issues, ten Hag can’t rely on the Frenchman to be available, so that may be why United are now looking at players like Leonardo, who could come in and take some of the workload