The Milan crisis clears the way for Barcelona with Rafael Leao

The defeat of AC Milan on Saturday against Torino (2-1) seems to have convinced Rafael Leao to end his time with the 'rossoneri' next summer. The '10' appeared to be getting a second wind in the 2024/25 season after the arrival of coach Sérgio Conceição, but the unexpected elimination in the UEFA Champions League against Feyenoord (2-1 on aggregate) and the team's poor performance in Serie A have strained the relationship between the club and the Portuguese forward.

For FC Barcelona, Leao is one of the most valued alternatives regarding left wingers. In fact, the Blaugrana board had an initial approach at the end of 2024 with the player and his agent, Jorge Mendes, who left the door open for negotiations at the end of the 2024/25 season. In any case, Barça will wait for the opening of the next summer market to define how many reinforcements they can incorporate and which positions will need adjustments.

Rafa Leao has already requested his exit from Milan

In this regard, 'La Gazzetta dello Sport' claims that the '10' from Milan has already communicated to the board his intention to leave next summer. Rafa has a contract until 2028, and the 'rossoneri' expect to receive around 100 million euros for his transfer. However, the winger hopes to resolve his exit for a figure closer to 80 'million', with the option of Barça being the one that interests him the most. At least, that is what he has conveyed to Mendes, with whom the Catalans maintain an excellent relationship.

The 25-year-old forward has scored 9 goals and provided 8 assists in 36 matches with Milan this season. His last goal was scored on February 8 against Empoli (0-2), while last week he also added an assist against Hellas Verona (1-0). However, in the Champions League playoff against Feyenoord, he could do nothing to prevent the surprising elimination of a Milan that is still alive in the Coppa Italia (awaiting a semifinal opponent), but risks missing out on the next Champions League in Serie A.

Sérgio Conceição's team is seventh with 41 points, 6 behind the fourth place currently held by Lazio with 47 points, although the Romans have one more match. Regardless of whether Milan qualifies for the next Champions League or not, Leao has already made a decision that could clear the way for Barça to pursue his signing next summer. The Catalans, however, depend on a significant sale to pursue the operation.