Carrick’s stance gives Tottenham clear run at £60m winger target

Tottenham have been handed a significant boost in their pursuit of a winger valued at around £60 million, with Michael Carrick’s Manchester United reportedly set to back away from the race.

Both Spurs and United are looking to strengthen their attacking options this summer, although Tottenham could bring in more than one wide player. Their primary target remains Manchester City’s Savinho, while Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo and AC Milan star Rafael Leao are also high on their shortlist.

Leao is expected to leave AC Milan this summer after both the player and the club agreed that ending their partnership, which began in 2019, is the best outcome. Milan are believed to value the Portuguese international at between €60 million and €70 million (£51m-£60m).

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has reported that clubs from the Saudi Pro League have already expressed interest in signing Leao during the Club World Cup. However, the winger is prioritising a move to another European club despite considering Saudi Arabia as a possible alternative.

TEAMtalk reports that Leao’s preferred destination is the Premier League, where he hopes to join one of the division’s top clubs. His representatives have already offered him to Tottenham, and the player is said to be open to joining Roberto De Zerbi’s side if an agreement can be reached with AC Milan.

Manchester United had also been linked with Leao after his representatives reportedly sounded out the club over a potential transfer. However, according to reports, Carrick does not see the 26-year-old as one of his main transfer priorities, meaning United are unlikely to compete with Tottenham for his signature.

With Leao seemingly no longer a realistic target, United are expected to focus their efforts on West Ham winger Crysencio Summerville instead. Journalist Ben Jacobs has revealed that talks between the two clubs have already begun.

Summerville is available for around £40 million due to a relegation release clause in his contract, provided the fee is paid in full upfront. West Ham are also willing to negotiate a higher overall package if payments are spread over time.

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