AC Milan are prepared to sell forward Rafael Leao for a fee of just €50 million this summer, according to reports from Italy, marking a dramatic drop in the club's valuation of the player. Gazzetta dello Sport reports that the Serie A side, who were once demanding more than double that figure, are now ready to sanction a sale, with Manchester United among the clubs linked with a move for the Portuguese international.
The reported asking price represents a steep discount from the €120 million figures being discussed for Leao just a few years ago, when he was heavily linked with a move to Chelsea. His current Estimated Transfer Value, according to FootballTransfers' algorithm, stands at €70.7 million, suggesting Milan are willing to accept a significant loss on a player once considered the crown jewel of their attack. The club had previously inserted a €175 million release clause into his contract when he signed a lucrative new deal in 2023.
Leao's standing at San Siro has deteriorated sharply following a series of controversies and a dip in form. The 26-year-old was named MVP during Milan's 2021/22 Scudetto-winning campaign, contributing 11 goals and 10 assists, but his relationship with the fanbase and the club has since soured. He has been whistled and booed by supporters in recent months, notably after poor performances in the Europa League against Roma last season and more recently in matches against Udinese and Juventus.
Disciplinary issues have also played a part, with head coach Max Allegri benching Leao at the start of the 2024/25 campaign. The player's perceived attitude and a public clash with Allegri have compounded matters. While he remains Milan's top scorer this season, he has not found the net in two months, and data analytics firm SciSports notes his SciSkill rating is in a period of "significant decline" over the last 18 months.
The situation has led Milan to conclude that a separation is the best path forward. The club's strategy, according to reports, may involve hoping Leao rediscovers his best form at the upcoming World Cup with Portugal to help stimulate the market. Despite his recent struggles, there is believed to be underlying interest from several Premier League sides. FootballTransfers has previously reported Arsenal's interest, while Chelsea, Liverpool, and Manchester United are all considered potential suitors for a player of his profile on the left wing.
For Milan, the sale would remove a disruptive element and free up substantial wages, allowing for a squad refresh under Allegri. For Leao, a move could provide the change of scenery needed to reignite a career that once placed him among Europe's most exciting attackers. The transfer represents a notable market opportunity for any buying club willing to bet on the winger returning to his peak, albeit with acknowledged risks given his recent trajectory.
