Milan Transfer Market: A Staggering Offer for Rafael Leao

Rafael Leao’s future remains uncertain: after numerous interviews early this summer, the Portuguese star’s departure from Milan seemed inevitable, but since the World Cup, as the days have passed, the situation for the Rossoneri’s No. 10 has become more complicated. Leao was waiting for offers from the Premier League—which have not materialized so far—and he is by no means convinced by the idea of moving to Turkey.

In recent weeks, Fenerbahçe had been the club most actively courting the player, but now it appears to be the other Istanbul club, Galatasaray, that has returned to knock on his door with a tempting offer: According to rumors, the Portuguese player has been offered a contract worth 12 million euros net per season—nearly double the salary he currently earns at Milan.

Talks between Galatasaray and the Milan club, however, have yet to begin: Gerry Cardinale has set the player’s price at 60 million euros, and there will be no discounts. Leao’s contract runs through 2028, and Rafa may ultimately decide to stay with the Rossoneri for another season: much will also depend on how well he clicks with new coach Ruben Amorim, with whom he has been training for the first time in recent days.

The Portuguese coach had this to say about Leao: “All the players are giving their all in training, both those who have been here since the start of training camp and those who joined later. Rafa is fortunate to play for a club like Milan, and for that reason he should feel happy. I sense that he’s happy and motivated. I can’t predict what will happen until the transfer window closes, but I sense a great spirit of unity within the team. I haven’t noticed any difference in Leao’s attitude compared to his teammates. I feel that the entire group is preparing as best as possible to face a truly challenging season.”