The FC Barcelona, during the last transfer market, explored several options considered 'top' to reinforce the left wing, a position that seemed to lack depth in the club's sporting project. Despite having players like Ansu Fati and Ferran Torres, capable of playing in that position, the club felt the need to make an addition that would serve as a significant 'statement' to complement the offensive trio formed by the young Cule star, Lamine Yamal, on the right flank, and in the center a veteran and natural goal scorer like Robert Lewandowski.
However, this idea did not materialize mainly due to the economic constraints of FC Barcelona to afford the most desired signing, that of Nico Williams. Along with the confidence that Hansi Flick had in his squad to find internal solutions, the club opted not to make any signings in that position, a decision that has proven to be correct.
The German coach, like Xavi Hernandez at his time, decided to trust Raphinha as the left winger on several occasions, also giving him opportunities in the attacking midfield area. The Brazilian has responded remarkably, accumulating 10 goals and nine assists in a standout season, showcasing one of his best offensive records as a Cule. With the Porto Alegre native excelling in that role, the discussion about the need to sign a left winger seemed to have been settled.
Barcelona Keeps an Eye on Rafael Leão
However, reality seems to indicate otherwise, as apparently Barcelona is still open to signing a natural left winger. As reported by 'SPORT', the Cule team would be interested in the situation of Rafael Leão at AC Milan, a player who continues to be of interest to the Barcelona entity and for whom they could make an offer if the price is right.
It is worth noting that this season with AC Milan, Rafael Leão is not showing his best numbers in terms of offensive performance (one goal and four assists in 11 matches). This is partly because he is sharing playing time on a flank where Noah Okafor has emerged as a valuable asset for coach Paulo Fonseca.
In addition, the Portuguese forward gives the impression of not being entirely comfortable with his current situation at the Italian club. Given this, it would not be surprising if Leão is considering the option of seeking an exit from AC Milan next summer.
In this context, as reported by the aforementioned source, FC Barcelona could be considering making a move for the Portuguese forward. However, this would only be possible if the 'Rossoneri' are willing to let him go for a more affordable amount. It is worth mentioning that previously, as reported by various sources, AC Milan, besides maintaining a firm stance regarding Leão's departure from the team, made it clear that in the hypothetical case of selling the Portuguese, it would be for a price exceeding €90 million, an amount unacceptable for Barça's finances.
However, if this alleged tension between Rafael Leão and AC Milan were to be true, it would not be unthinkable for the 'Rossoneri' to consider the possibility of letting him go during the next summer transfer window at a slightly lower price than initially stipulated. This situation could be seized upon by FC Barcelona, given that the Portuguese appears to be a player liked by both the sports director of the institution, Deco, and the coach of the Cule team, Hansi Flick.