AC Milan Reject Arsenal's Approach for Rafael Leao
AC Milan sporting director Igli Tare has issued a hands-off warning to Arsenal and other clubs interested in forward Rafael Leao, insisting the Portuguese star remains central to the club's project. The 24-year-old winger, who has a reported release clause of €175 million, has been frequently linked with a move to the Premier League, with Arsenal among the clubs regularly cited as potential suitors. Tare's comments, as reported by Sky Italia, are a clear signal of Milan's intent to retain their key players despite the interest.
Tare, speaking to Sky Italia, was unequivocal in his stance on the 25-year-old's future. "Rafael is a key player for us, he has a contract with Milan and we are counting on him for the coming years," he said. The public declaration from the Milan chief is a significant show of support for Leao, who has been a pivotal figure at the San Siro since his arrival from Lille in 2019.
Leao, who has a contract with the Rossoneri until June 2028, has been a standout performer for the Italian giants, consistently contributing with goals and assists from the left wing. His form has made him a target for several of Europe's top clubs, with Arsenal reportedly monitoring the situation closely as Mikel Arteta looks to add a dynamic, goal-scoring winger to his squad.
However, Tare's comments suggest Milan are in no mood to negotiate, even for a fee in the region of €80 million. The Portuguese international's current deal, signed in the summer of 2022, includes a release clause reported to be in the region of €175 million, a figure that would make him one of the most expensive signings in Premier League history should Arsenal or any other club trigger it. For now, Milan's firm stance and the player's long-term contract make a summer transfer appear increasingly unlikely.
