Rafael Leao transfer latest: Aston Villa hold Milan talks as Galatasaray remain in race
Rafael Leao could be approaching the end of his AC Milan career, with Aston Villa in talks over a move for the Portugal international and Galatasaray continuing to monitor the situation.
Aston Villa have opened talks with Milan to understand whether a deal can be reached in the final days of the summer transfer window. Crucially, Leão is open to the possibility of moving to England, with the chance to play in the Premier League and Champions League making Unai Emery’s side an attractive destination.
Milan, however, have no intention of allowing one of their most valuable attacking players to leave for less than their valuation.
Milan stand firm on Leao valuation
The Rossoneri are looking for a fee in the region of €60m. Earlier interest from Galatasaray resulted in proposals Milan considered insufficient, including an offer of around €30m plus €5m in bonuses earlier this month.
The Turkish champions have since explored improved terms, but Milan’s position has remained unchanged: they are prepared to discuss a permanent transfer, but only if the fee reflects Leão’s status and market value.
Aston Villa’s entry into the race has therefore changed the picture. The Premier League club’s greater spending power gives them more scope to put together an offer capable of moving negotiations forward.
Premier League move appeals to Leao
Leao has previously spoken openly about the possibility of seeking a new challenge after several seasons at San Siro. There has been no suggestion that he would force his way out, but his willingness to consider a move to Villa removes one potential obstacle to a deal.
For Milan, the timing is crucial. Selling a player of Leão’s importance so late in the window would leave the club with little time to reinvest, meaning any agreement would need to make sense both financially and from a sporting perspective.
Galatasaray remain in the picture, but Villa currently offer the clearest route to the Premier League, a destination Leão is understood to favour.
The next move is now up to the interested clubs. Unless Milan’s €60m valuation is met or approached, the Portugal international could still remain at San Siro beyond the transfer deadline.
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