AC Milan director, Paolo Maldini, has commented on forward Rafael Leao’s future, stating: “We consider Rafael Leão untouchable. He is not for sale”.
The statement follows rumoured interest in the 22-year-old from both Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid.
Club Director Paolo Maldini Addresses Rafael Leão’s Future at AC Milan
Serie A’s Best Player
The Portugal international is fresh off receiving the Serie A Best Player award for the 2021/22 season, which saw Leão score 11 goals and contribute with ten assists in 34 appearances.
Lining up primarily as a left-winger this season, Leão was directly involved in 21 goal contributions as he helped AC Milan clinch their first Scudetto in 11 years. Leão even chipped in with three assists on the final day of the season as they beat Sassuolo 3-0 to finish top of Serie A.
There’s no denying that Leão is one of the brightest young talents in world football and is fresh off a season where he managed to take his game to another level. The future is bright for the young winger, however, it’s not clear whether that future will be in Milan or elsewhere.
Could Real Madrid or PSG Make a Move?
Both Real Madrid and PSG are rumoured to be interested in the 22-year-old winger, however, with Maldini’s comments, it appears that AC Milan are not willing to come to the negotiating table.
Leão’s contract reportedly contains a €150 million release clause. However, activating this would be quite the statement, even from a club such as PSG. AC Milan are looking to agree to a new contract with Leão, which would surely increase the release clause for the players’ impressive campaign.
With Real Madrid missing out on Kylian Mbappe, who stayed at PSG, the Champions League finalists may be looking towards other attacking options. Leão has shown he is capable of playing to a very high level in one of Europe’s top-four leagues so it’s understandable that Real Madrid would be interested. However, early signs suggest that they are not looking to discuss a deal for their player at the moment.
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