‘I want that!’ – Rafael Leao makes transfer wish public as Milan offer huge discount

News

Robin Bairner | Chief Editor

Accredited football journalist and editor covering the game since 2006

Rafael Leao has gone public on his intention to leave AC Milan this summer, with the Italian giants prepared to sanction a sale for a discounted fee in the region of €50 million.

The 26-year-old winger remains under contract at San Siro until June 2028 and possesses a €175m release clause.

However, Milan are reportedly willing to accept a significantly reduced sum of between €40m and €60m following a highly disappointing campaign.

Current ETV

Rafael Leão

F (CL), M (L)

Milan

Rafael Leão

F (CL), M (L)

Milan

€66.5M

ETV Range

€59.9M - €73.2M

View full profile

The Rossoneri failed to qualify for the Champions League after finishing fifth in the league table, a result that has severely impacted the club's financial leverage.

Leao endured a frustrating season, heavily disrupted by a recurring groin injury, and managed just 10 goals across 31 appearances in all competitions. Meanwhile, his standing at the club faltered amid criticism from fans and his loss of form.

Rafael Leao: I want Premier League move

The Portugal international has now publicly confirmed his desire to move on.

Speaking to SportTV in Portugal, Leao stated that he has "given everything" to the club over a seven-year tenure.

The AC Milan star said: “I want a new challenge out of Serie A. I follow the Premier League with great attention. If I have the opportunity to play there or La Liga I would be really happy because my talent would be hailed there.

“Let’s see what happens this summer.”

A move to the Premier League is his preferred outcome, with Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea all cited as potential suitors.

United are considered a dream destination due to the player's admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo, and the Manchester club have reportedly already opened talks.

Arsenal have also been offered the chance to sign the forward, while Tottenham and Newcastle are monitoring the situation.

Bayern Munich and PSG are aware of the attack’s availability, but neither club is currently expected to pursue a deal.

Despite the heavy English interest, the only formal proposal on the table so far has arrived from Turkey.

Galatasaray have submitted an offer that would see the player earn approximately €10m per year - a lucrative package that is nearly double the winger's current salary in Italy.

A final decision on his next destination is expected to be delayed, with the winger waiting until after the upcoming World Cup in North America to finalise a move.

Milan identify replacement for left flank

Milan, meanwhile, are already preparing for a major transition following the sacking of head coach Massimiliano Allegri.

The club hierarchy is searching for a successor, with Oliver Glasner and Matthias Jaissle emerging as the leading candidates.

The new manager will be expected to build a team around a core group of cornerstone players, including Mike Maignan, Matteo Gabbia and Christian Pulisic.

To fill the significant void soon to be left on the left flank, the Italian side have identified West Ham United winger Crysencio Summerville as a primary target.

Related stories:

Build The FIFA World Cup 2026™: LEGO© releases stunning football-inspired collection

Zadok Yohanna: Why 32 scouts are tracking Nigeria’s next wing sensation

Transfer Rumours: €60m move greenlit as Man Utd make shock Bruno Fernandes decision

The FootballTransfers app

Check out FootballTransfers' new app for all of football's big storylines, transfer rumours and exclusive news in one convenient place directly on your mobile device.

The FootballTransfers app is available on Google Play and in the Apple App Store. Download here:

•Google Play

•App Store