Transfer Centre

Manchester United target Leonardo Bonucci 'asks to leave AC Milan'

By Barney Corkhill, Editor | 18 July 2018

Rumoured Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea target Leonardo Bonucci reportedly hands in a transfer request at AC Milan.

Rumoured Manchester United target Leonardo Bonucci has reportedly handed in a transfer request at AC Milan.

Bonucci only joined Milan following a seven-year stay at Juventus last summer, but the club's financial issues and expulsion from European competition have led to him consider his future at the club.

The Express reports that the 31-year-old has asked to leave San Siro during the current transfer window, with the Premier League understood to be his preferred destination.

United are in the market for a new central defender and have been heavily linked with a move for Toby Alderweireld, although the lack of progress in negotiations on that front could lead them to pursue other targets.

Jose Mourinho is thought to be a long-term admirer of Bonucci, but United are expected to face competition for the Italy international's signature from Manchester City and Chelsea.

New Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri is hopeful that the Italian connection at the club will help entice Bonucci to Stamford Bridge, although their lack of Champions League football could prove to be a stumbling block.

Bonucci made 51 appearances for Milan across all competitions last season.