The 'Rafael Leao case' has finally 'exploded' in Milan. The Portuguese's relationship with Paulo Fonseca and his coaching staff is practically broken as the player is very upset by his ostracism in the starting eleven, which is why he has asked his agents to find him an exit for the next winter market or in the summer as he does not see a future in the 'rossoneri' club.
And despite being the Milan's top figure, the Portuguese coach has decided to return him to the bench as he considers that he is not involved defensively. A decision that has put the footballer's continuity at San Siro in doubt and has put his signing 'on the line' for FC Barcelona, who already 'tested' his signing during the last summer window.
Jorge Mendes, the key to the operation
At Can Barça they are kept abreast of the situation thanks to Jorge Mendes, the forward's agent who has a great relationship with Joan Laporta. A priori, the Catalans are not expected to make any move in January unless the operation is very beneficial, a complicated scenario but one that, as of today, cannot be ruled out due to the tension between all those involved.
According to 'Tuttosport', the player is determined to stop wearing the 'rossonera' shirt and would even be open to going out on loan in winter if he does not manage to get his present at the club back on track. A formula that would be seen with very good eyes in Barcelona, where, at the moment, they could not assume the signing of the Portuguese due to the high amounts that are being handled in his operation.
The truth is that the Catalans consider that they must reinforce the left wing and the option of Leao is more alive than ever. Nico Williams is the great favourite of the sports management, but the competition in the 'race' makes his signing difficult, so the Portuguese alternative is beginning to gain ground and, if his 'soap opera' with Milan does not find a solution, his arrival at the Spotify Camp Nou could be on track.