The emergence of Rafael Leão at AC Milan has made him a hot prospect on the transfer market, with Chelsea reportedly being one of the clubs interested.
Milan’s technical director, legendary former player Paolo Maldini, remains optimistic that Leão won’t depart for Stamford Bridge:
“I feel we’ve good chances to reach an agreement with Rafa Leão on a new contract to keep him here at Milan”, Maldini told Gazzetta dello Sport, as reported by Fabrizio Romano, adding that “Leão knows that this club is the best one for his growth”.
Rafael Leão’s Future at AC Milan
AC Milan director Paolo Maldini on Rafa Leão and Chelsea rumours: “I feel we’ve good chances to reach an agreement with Rafa Leão on a new contract to keep him here at Milan”, tells Gazzetta dello Sport. 🚨🔴 #ACMilan
“Leão knows that this club is the best one for his growth”. pic.twitter.com/mdoq53ORs9
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 25, 2022
Rafael Leão ‘Not for Sale’
Rafael Leão is a product of Sporting CP, making his senior debut for the first team at the age of 18. This garnered interest from Ligue 1 side Lille, who signed Leão on a free transfer spanning five years.
However, the Portuguese international only stayed for a single season before departing for AC Milan in 2019. He’s been there to this day, netting 26 times in 101 league appearances.
In fact, Leão has left such a mark that Milan’s technical director Paolo Maldini considers the 23-year-old to be ‘untouchable’ and ‘not for sale’.
Read more: AC Milan Director Comments on Rafael Leão’s Future
Vast International Experience at Youth Level
Parallel to his club career, Leão has vast international experience for the Portugal youth teams. This has seen him play in a staggering three finals, one of which was won.
Last year, the Portuguese international made his senior debut for the national team. Despite having not scored yet, Leão has enjoyed some solid displays for Portugal.
Following Leão’s emergence, he has naturally attracted interest from other clubs, Chelsea being one of them.
Another Milan profile who’s experienced his fair share of transfer rumours is the legendary former player Paolo Maldini. As the club’s technical director, Maldini remains optimistic that Leão will stay.
Read more: Rafael Leao Awarded Serie A Best Player
