Bruno Fernandes sends one-word message to Man Utd target after red card for punching rival

View 2 Images

Bruno Fernandes has rallied behind Portugal team-mate Rafael Leao after the forward was shown a red card during a World Cup warm-up fixture. The Manchester United skipper told Leao, who has been linked with a summer switch to Old Trafford, that they were 'together' in the aftermath of the incident.

Unsettled AC Milan ace Leao was dismissed after appearing to throw a punch at an opponent. The winger waded into a confrontation between Joao Cancelo and Chile's Felipe Faundez, becoming embroiled with Ivan Roman, whom he repeatedly pushed before landing a blow to his face.

Following a VAR review, both players were given their marching orders. Fernandes was close to the flashpoint and appeared more than willing to show his support for his international colleague ahead of the World Cup.

Leao moved to justify his actions and received a show of solidarity from the United captain. "Regarding my expulsion," Leao posted on Instagram .

"I simply wanted to protect my colleague, never with the intention of hurting the opponent! Thank you to all the Portuguese who came to Jamor, amazing atmosphere, we're still together"

Fernandes responded to the winger's post with a succinct message. The 31-year-old said: "Together."

Leao is poised to leave AC Milan this summer , with Galatasaray and Fenerbahce both reportedly interested in the 26-year-old. United and Arsenal have also been mooted as potential destinations, and the former Lille star has openly indicated that a switch to the Premier League would be ideal for him.

"I need a new challenge. I already won two trophies in Italy and have been there for a while," Leao told Portuguese news outlet Sport TV.

View 2 Images

FOLLOW OUR MAN UTD FB PAGE! Latest United news and more on our dedicated Facebook page

"The league is evolving, but for my style of football, I think the Premier League or La Liga would make more of my talent, as a player."

He added: "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. Playing in that kind of a league really gets the best out of a player."

Milan are understood to be prepared to accept £43million for the attacker this summer. Leao has two years left on his deal.