Ac Milan Chief Delivers Stern Rebuff to Barcelona Over Rafael Leao Interest
Barcelona’s ambitious pursuit of AC Milan’s star forward Rafael Leao has hit a major roadblock as Milan’s top brass sends an unequivocal message to the Catalan giants: Leao is not for sale.
The 25-year-old Portuguese international, who has been a pivotal figure for the Rossoneri since his arrival from Lille in August 2019, is set to remain at San Siro despite the mounting interest from Europe’s elite.
Rafael Leao has firmly established himself as one of the top talents in Serie A, with a remarkable record of 58 goals and 50 assists in 211 appearances for AC Milan.
His contributions have not gone unnoticed, and his stock has risen considerably over the years.
In the 2021-22 season, Leao was crowned Serie A Player of the Year, a testament to his extraordinary influence on Milan’s title-winning campaign, during which he netted 11 goals and provided 10 assists in 34 matches.
The following season, Leao continued to impress, contributing 15 goals and 14 assists in 47 appearances, further solidifying his reputation as one of the most dynamic forwards in Europe.
This level of performance has inevitably drawn the attention of several top European clubs, including Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United, and Chelsea.
Reports have surfaced that Barcelona, in particular, is keen on bringing Leao to Camp Nou this summer. The Catalan club has reportedly valued the left-sided forward between €90 million (£77 million) and €100 million (£85 million) and was preparing to make a serious move for his signature.
However, Milan’s CEO, Giorgio Furlani, has made it crystal clear that Leao is not going anywhere.
Speaking to El Chiringuito TV, as quoted by journalist Fabrizio Romano, Furlani stated: “Rafa Leao will not leave AC Milan this summer. Barcelona move? No chance. No way. He’s not leaving the club. 100%. If Rafa asks to leave? He’s not going to ask to leave the club. I think my message is quite clear, no?”
Furlani’s words leave little room for speculation, as he firmly shuts down any possibility of Leao departing Milan in this transfer window.
This statement echoes Leao’s own sentiments earlier this year when he addressed the swirling transfer rumors and reiterated his commitment to AC Milan.
The forward is currently under contract with the Italian giants until June 2028, further cementing his future at the club.
Barcelona’s pursuit of Leao was seen as a potential alternative to their top summer target, Nico Williams, who is expected to remain at Athletic Bilbao.
The Catalan club has been exploring various options to bolster their attacking ranks, having already secured the services of versatile attacker Dani Olmo for a reported £51 million. However, with Leao now off the table, Barca may have to shift their focus elsewhere.
Among the names linked to Barcelona as alternatives are Juventus winger Federico Chiesa, who has fallen out of favor under new boss Thiago Motta and could be available for as little as £12.8 million.
Additionally, Barcelona is rumored to be considering a shock loan move for Manchester United’s Jadon Sancho, whose situation at Old Trafford is reportedly being closely monitored by sporting director Deco.
As the transfer window approaches its final stages, it remains to be seen how Barcelona will navigate their pursuit of a new wide forward.
One thing is certain, though: Rafael Leao will not be part of that equation, much to the relief of AC Milan fans.
Ac Milan Chief Delivers Stern Rebuff to Barcelona Over Rafael Leao Interest