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Exclusive: Arsenal in talks over €80m Rafael Leao move
Cameron Smith
- 20 Feb 2026 13:52 CST
- 3 min read
News
Arsenal have held initial talks with Rafael Leao’s representatives as they eye a potential summer move for the AC Milan superstar, FootballTransfers understands.
The Portugal international has been on Arsenal’s radar for several years and we have been told that Mikel Arteta’s side have now stepped up their pursuit of his signature ahead of the 2026 summer transfer window.
Current ETV
Rafael Leão
F (CL), M (L)
Milan
Rafael Leão
F (CL), M (L)
Milan
ETV Range
€63.4M - €77.5M
Leao, who has registered 11 goal contributions in 20 matches so far this season, will only have two years remaining on his current contract at Milan this summer and the Serie A giants are willing to sanction a sale if they receive a suitable offer.
Sources have informed us that Milan are now prepared to sell Leao for a fee in the region of €75-80 million and he has been earmarked as Arsenal’s primary attacking target for the upcoming summer window.
We understand that Manchester United are also strongly interested in the 26-year-old, although Arsenal are the frontrunners to secure his signature as things stand.
Gunners sporting director Andrea Berta has already held face-to-face talks with Leao’s representatives and although the Portugal international is yet to discuss a potential Arsenal switch, he has informed his camp to engage in negotiations over a summer deal.
Rafael Leao to join Arsenal?
Leao has been linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium throughout his time at Milan and a move could finally materialise this summer as Arsenal look to bolster their attacking ranks ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.
Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard have shared duties as Arteta’s preferred left winger throughout this season, but the club are searching for a potential alternative option and Leao has emerged as a primary candidate for the role.
FootballTransfers also understands that Inter Milan striker Francesco Pio Esposito is on Arsenal’s radar ahead of this summer, while the north London giants are expected to rekindle their pursuit of Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali too.
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