Barcelona Eyes Rafael Leão as Potential Summer Signing

Rafael Leão, the Portuguese winger for AC Milan, has resurfaced on Barcelona's radar during the summer transfer window as the Catalan club looks to strengthen its attacking line, potentially mirroring the deal they struck for Marcus Rashford.

According to Italian newspaper "La Gazzetta dello Sport," Barcelona has inquired about Leão's situation, who is not part of the plans of new Milan manager Ruben Amorim, although this interest has yet to evolve into formal negotiations.

The report adds that Milan is open to selling the player for a fee between €60 million and €70 million, despite his release clause exceeding €150 million, figures that do not align with Barcelona's current financial situation, which previously led them to reject a €30 million deal for Rashford.

La Gazzetta dello Sport also noted that the Italian club is not ruling out the possibility of agreeing to a loan for Rafael Leão with an obligatory purchase option, a structure that could provide Barcelona with a better chance to finalize the deal if they decide to move seriously.

Interest in Leão is not limited to Barcelona; the report indicates that Tottenham has also inquired about the player's status, while several Saudi clubs are monitoring his situation in preparation for a potential transfer during the window.

Rafael Leão is under contract with Milan until 2028 and has made 291 appearances for the Italian side over seven seasons, scoring 80 goals, though his lack of consistency remains a notable criticism, despite his significant contribution to Milan's Serie A title win in the 2021/2022 season.