The striker has scored four goals at the FIFA U-20 World Cup so far, including two against Italy
Author: Soorya G
Premier League giants Manchester United are said to have expressed an interest in signing talented young Brazilian Marcos Leonardo in the summer transfer window. Dutch manager Erik Ten Hag will be involved in a major overhaul of the Manchester United team, if the reports are true, and one of the positions he will be keen to sort out first is the top half of the pitch.
United are believed to be ready to sign two strikers; England star Harry Kane is at the top of Ten Hag’s list, as the Tottenham Hotspur legend is preparing to leave the club at the end of the season. With only one year left on his contract, Kane’s departure could be a way for Spurs to make some money and avoid losing him for free in 2024.
Marcos Leonardo has done very well for both Santos, his club in the Brazilian Serie A, and the Brazilian national team, where he is currently part of the squad for the FIFA U-20 World Cup. Most recently, Leonardo scored in Brazil’s quarter-final against Tunisia, increasing his tally to four goals in the tournament. He had previously scored twice against Italy, but in a lost match.
He had an impressive campaign in the Brazilian championship in 2022, scoring 13 goals and registering three assists at the previous stage. Leonardo got off to a good start this time, scoring two goals in four games for Santos. Even if the deal to take him to Old Trafford goes through, the Brazilian will probably have to spend a season or two on loan to prepare for the next level.
United have also been linked with Danish striker Rasmus Hojlund, from Serie A side Atalanta, who has been a revelation this term. The Dane has scored eight goals in the Italian top flight in 19 appearances, as well as providing two assists. His name is also on Erik Ten Hag’s list, and he could be transferred this summer.