UMVA has learned that Rafael Leao, the talented Portuguese winger, is eager to leave AC Milan this summer in search of a new challenge.
The 26-year-old, who has been with the Italian giants since 2019, has made it clear that he wants to test himself in the Premier League or La Liga, and is willing to make a big move to achieve his goal.
Leao has had a successful spell with AC Milan, making 291 appearances, scoring 80 goals, and winning Serie A in 2022, but he believes that he needs a new challenge to take his game to the next level.
"I need a new challenge," Leao said. "I already won two trophies in Italy and have been there for a while. The league [Serie A] is evolving, but for my style of football, I think the Premier League or La Liga would make more of my talent, as a player."
AC Milan is willing to let Leao go, but they want a hefty €50million (£43m) transfer fee for a player who still has two years left on his contract.
Several top clubs, including Arsenal and Manchester United, have been linked with interest in Leao, but transfer expert sources suggest that a move to either English giant is unlikely unless he can prove himself in the upcoming World Cup.
Leao's chances of impressing in the World Cup took a hit when he was sent-off in a friendly against Chile on Saturday, and he will miss Portugal's final friendly before the tournament.
The winger insists that he was only trying to protect his teammate, and that he never intended to hurt the opponent, but the incident may have raised concerns among potential suitors.
Despite the setback, Leao remains determined to make a big impact in the World Cup and prove himself as one of the top players in the world.
Sources close to the player suggest that elite clubs are watching his progress closely, and a 'masterclass' performance in the World Cup could still persuade them to make a move for him.
For now, Leao's focus is on the World Cup, and he will be eager to show the world what he can do on the biggest stage.
