One big name looks set to be available for around €60m this summer, and he’s actively seeking a move – the player in question is AC Milan’s Rafael Leao, but it’s not entirely obvious to me at this moment in time where he’ll be going next.
I’m aware there’s been a lot of speculation about top clubs showing interest in Leao, and while that’s certainly part of the story, it’s also important to note that some of the interest could be being exaggerated by certain sources to get the player’s name in headlines.
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My understanding is that although there is some genuine interest from Arsenal and Manchester United, he’s not necessarily seen as a top target for either club, though they’re being kept informed on his situation as a possible market opportunity.
Rafael Leao on offer for €60m
Arsenal are actively pursuing new signings for the left-hand side of their attack, so my sources tell me they’ve been contacted about Leao. There is not yet any indication, however, that the Gunners will make a move.
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United have been asked to be kept in the loop, while there is also some interest from Bayern Munich as they seek depth in attack. One surprise option could even be Galatasaray, though they’ll likely struggle to afford the deal and the player’s wages.
Paris Saint-Germain were previously keen on Leao but that was a while ago now and their interest is understood to have cooled as they now look for a different profile of player.
Will clubs take a punt on Rafael Leao?
| Rafael Leao | Games | Goals | Assists |
| AC Milan 2025/26 | 30 | 9 | 3 |
The Portugal international can be a joy to watch on his day, but he’s struggled for consistency, and there are concerns about how well he’d step up from Serie A to a more demanding competition like the Premier League.
It’s perfectly possible, though, that Arsenal and Man Utd will look at this option again later in the window if they struggle to land their top targets, or if there’s any suggestion of Milan lowering their asking price.
For now, I’d take most Leao stories with a pinch of salt, even if it’s something to watch as the summer goes on.
Arsenal need to dodge that bullet. He has good skills but three main negatives.
1st His STATs are poor, and shows that he has played 80% of his games as a centre forward and not a left winger.
He has a 40% goal involvement as a centre forward which is below a world standard and one of a mid table centre forward player.
His goal involvement as a left winger is zero from three.
2nd is his injury record as he has only played apx 65% of required games.
3rd is his wages being one of little value for money return.
His positives is his transfer cost and good dribbling skills (without the high STATs) , but it makes you wonder why he is being sold so cheap! I think he would be a risk if he had been willing to accept lower wages with games played bonuses, or to accept a year lone with an option to buy. To safeguard Arsenal against a possible huge bad investment if he gets injured or doesn’t perform.