Rafael Leao, 27, is nearing a departure from AC Milan after seven seasons, following Ruben Amorim’s indication that the player is both unnecessary and too expensive. AC Milan has received an improved offer from Galatasaray, which totals €50 million, comprised of a fixed amount of €40 million with additional performance-based bonuses.
Despite rumors linking him to Premier League clubs, including Aston Villa, Galatasaray remains the frontrunner for Leao’s signature, given the Turkish club’s resurgence in the transfer market.
Galatasaray’s revised proposal includes a starting sum of €35 million, with €5 million in easily achievable bonuses contingent on the team finishing among the top 24 in the Champions League group stage, equivalent to qualifying for the playoffs, plus an additional €10 million based on more challenging conditions, specifically reaching the quarter-finals of the competition.
Leao Prefers Galatasaray’s Offer Over Saudi Arabia’s Due to Higher Salary
While the €50 million figure is not fully guaranteed and the structure remains complex, there is a strong possibility that the deal will meet this benchmark. The decision now rests with AC Milan, especially as the transfer deadline approaches (in Turkey on September 3, 48 hours after Italy’s deadline).
Leao previously declined an offer from Al Hilal, opting to stay in Europe, and seems inclined towards the Turkish option, partly due to a proposed annual net salary of €12 million from Galatasaray, compared to his current €5 million at Milan.
Aston Villa is currently searching for a central striker rather than a winger, as they prepare to sell Ollie Watkins to a Saudi club. Players like Mateta and Kofane are now seen as more appealing to manager Unai Emery than Leao. Meanwhile, Tottenham has shown no recent interest in the Portuguese winger.
