FC Barcelona are still looking for a striker this summer and now, the top favourite could be Rafael Leao. With Nico Williams' stay at Athletic Club practically confirmed, the Barça board is considering several interesting options for the left winger such as Federico Chiesa, Kingsley Coman or Jadon Sancho. But the Portuguese would be the new focus of attention thanks to his great talent and future projection.
However, it will not be easy to get him out of Italy. Leao is a player who has always been very loyal to AC Milan, who have given him the opportunity to shine in Europe. Added to this, there are several clubs interested in his services, such as PSG or Saudi Arabian football, who have already made an offer of 70 million euros plus bonuses. But this proposal would fall short of Milan's demands.
How much is Milan asking for Leao?
Milan is asking for 120 million euros to say goodbye to the 25-year-old attacker. It's no surprise that the price is so high, because he's one of their best players and they've always stuck to this amount since the transfer market began. After all, finding an ideal replacement would be complex, especially when there are less than two weeks left until the transfer window closes on August 30.
Leao has a contract until June 2028 and his exit clause is 150 million euros, so whoever wants him should take advantage of this 'offer' from Milan. The Portuguese player would not be against leaving Italy and Barcelona could convince him, after all, he has a special connection with the Blaugrana club. Right now, what's stopping the Barça board is the financial issue.
Can Barcelona get his services?
Right now, it's almost impossible. What the Barça team could hold on to is the good relationship between Deco and Jorge Mendes. The popular football agent is a good friend of the Portuguese (but not his representative) and has been offering him to several clubs, so it could lead to a rapprochement between both parties. But, the deal will not happen without the approval of his family, who are supported by lawyers.
Leao is one of the players of Barça president Joan Laporta, and it is believed that he could fit well into Hansi Flick's scheme. The coach has a proposal that combines possession play with quickly attacking the opposing goal, so the Portuguese's talent for creating plays added to his versatility would make him a well-received player. If the board wants to go for him, they will have to sell and quickly, otherwise, the dream of having another star in Barcelona could quickly fade away.