MilanNews.it exclusive: Turkish journalist Ozgur Sancar on Rafael Leao's future

AC Milan face an increasingly important decision over Rafael Leão's future. The Portugal international continues to be linked with a move away from San Siro, with Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe both reportedly interested.

But how genuine are those rumours? To find out more, MilanNews.it spoke exclusively to Turkish journalist Ozgur Sancar of AS.

How serious is Fenerbahçe's interest?
"In reality, Fenerbahçe are not genuinely interested in signing Rafael Leão. Their objective is to complicate negotiations between Milan and Galatasaray because of the fierce rivalry between the two clubs. At the moment, Galatasaray are the only Turkish club seriously trying to sign him."

What is the current situation?
"Galatasaray have sent a letter of interest to Milan asking about the conditions of a possible deal. Their intention is to sign Leão on an initial one-year loan with an option to buy."

So are Fenerbahçe simply trying to disrupt the deal?
"Exactly. Fenerbahçe no longer have the financial resources to invest around €50m in Leão. They also need to free up space in their foreign-player quota before making another signing, and the club are already around €32m in deficit."

What do you expect to happen next?
"At the moment, I believe Galatasaray are a more attractive destination for Leão. They will play in the Champions League, they are the most successful club in Turkey and they are also capable of putting together a more attractive financial package."