In a surprising turn of events, Barcelona have reportedly set its sights on AC Milan’s star forward Rafael Leao, capitalizing on the apparent rift between the player and his current club. The Portuguese attacker has found himself on the bench for three consecutive matches under manager Paulo Fonseca’s tenure, a situation that has not gone unnoticed by the Catalan giants.
La Gazzetta dello Sport report (Via Virgilio.it) that Leao’s recent struggles at Milan have raised eyebrows, with his performance against Napoli showcasing both flashes of brilliance and his characteristic inconsistency. This has led to speculation about his future at the San Siro, with Milan management reportedly considering drastic measures if the situation doesn’t improve soon.
Barcelona, who had previously expressed interest in Leao, is now closely monitoring the developing situation. Despite Leao’s contract running until 2028, which provides Milan with some security, the strained relationship between the player and Fonseca could potentially lead to Leao seeking a move away from the Italian club.
According to reports from the Catalan press, Barcelona have already made initial contact with Jorge Mendes, the influential sports agent who, while no longer directly representing Leao, remains a key figure in potential negotiations. The Spanish club appears to be laying the groundwork for a possible transfer, hoping that Leao’s current circumstances might make him more receptive to a move.
This development adds another layer of complexity to Milan’s current predicament, as they must now navigate not only internal issues but also external interest in one of their most valuable assets.