Fenerbahçe are emerging as the frontrunners to sign Rafael Leão from AC Milan, with a representative from the Turkish club expected in Milan next week to discuss a potential deal. According to reports, the club is prioritizing a move for the Portuguese forward despite their current focus on Champions League qualifying.
Galatasaray were previously interested in Leão, having submitted a proposal exceeding €10 million per season, but Fenerbahçe now appear to have greater financial flexibility. The Turkish club recently issued a statement clarifying that they have not made a bid of €100 million for the player, emphasizing their immediate concentration on their Champions League second qualifying round tie against Gornik Zabrze, which they currently lead 1-0 on aggregate.
Leão has been linked with a move away from Milan for some time, and his recent form has reportedly impacted his valuation, potentially dropping to around €40 million. Milan are keen to reduce his significant wage, which currently ranges between €5.5 and €7 million per season. The proposed offers from Turkish clubs, reaching €10 million annually, could prove enticing for the player.
Currently in Brazil, Leão participated in an event for his clothing brand, Son is Son, and trained with Corinthians. He is scheduled to travel directly from Brazil to Perth, Australia, to join the Milan squad for their upcoming friendlies against Perth Glory on August 1st and Inter on August 5th. It remains uncertain whether he will feature in either match. The next ten days are expected to be crucial in determining the outcome of the potential transfer, with Fenerbahçe’s visit to Milan set to be a key moment in negotiations. A successful move would see Leão join a growing number of high-profile players in the Turkish Super Lig.
