Fernandes backs red-carded Leao as £43m United transfer target eyes Premier League move

Bruno Fernandes has rallied behind Rafael Leao after the AC Milan attacker was dismissed during Portugal’s World Cup warm-up match against Chile, with the Manchester United captain responding to his team-mate’s Instagram post with a single word: “Together.”

Leao was given his marching orders following a VAR review after he appeared to punch Chile’s Ivan Roman while attempting to intervene in an altercation involving Joao Cancelo and Felipe Faundez. The 26-year-old was caught on camera repeatedly shoving Roman before striking him in the face, prompting officials to send off both players.

The winger took to Instagram to defend his actions, insisting he had no intention of causing harm. “I simply wanted to protect my colleague, never with the intention of hurting the opponent,” Leao wrote. “Thank you to all the Portuguese who came to Jamor, amazing atmosphere, we’re still together.” Fernandes, who was close to the incident on the pitch, replied directly to the post with his brief show of solidarity.

The episode adds another layer of intrigue to what is shaping up to be a busy summer for Leao. The former Lille forward has made little secret of his desire to leave Milan, and has spoken candidly about where he sees his future. “I need a new challenge. I already won two trophies in Italy and have been there for a while,” he told Portuguese outlet Sport TV. “The league is evolving, but for my style of football, I think the Premier League or La Liga would make more of my talent.”

Leao went further, expressing enthusiasm at the prospect of English football specifically. “If a Premier League opportunity were to come along, I would be very happy. I think that I can put my talent up against the players there, who are of a very high level.”

Milan are reportedly prepared to sell the winger for £43 million this summer, with two years remaining on his contract. Manchester United and Arsenal have both been linked with the attacker, while Turkish clubs Galatasaray and Fenerbahce have also been credited with interest.

Fernandes’ public backing of Leao — however brief — will not go unnoticed given the United captain’s own connection to Old Trafford and his close relationship with the player on the international stage.