Milan and Fenerbahçe have initiated discussions regarding a potential transfer of forward Rafael Leão, according to reports from Italy. An emissary from the Turkish club, Cihan Kamer, met with Milan officials in Milan to assess the conditions required for a deal.
The meeting has been described as preliminary, with Fenerbahçe currently awaiting developments in their Champions League qualification campaign. Milan are reportedly seeking a fee in the region of €50 million for the Portuguese international. Currently, Fenerbahçe has not submitted a formal offer.
Should Fenerbahçe progress through their qualifying rounds – they face Gornik Zabrze in the second leg of the second qualifying round, with potential further ties against Sturm Graz and a playoff round to follow – they anticipate increased revenue and ambition in the transfer market. A salary offer of €10 million per season, plus bonuses, is believed to be a potential package for Leão.
Galatasaray also remain interested in Leão, and could emerge as a competitor for his signature, though any deal with the Turkish rivals is expected to take longer to materialise, potentially unfolding in the latter part of August. A loan with an obligation to buy is also a possibility.
Leão is currently scheduled to join Milan’s pre-season tour in Perth, Australia, where he will link up with teammates including Gonçalo Ramos and meet new manager Ruben Amorim. Amorim addressed the speculation surrounding Leão in his first press conference, stating he will speak with the player to outline his plans and emphasising that Leão remains a Milan player until his situation changes. He acknowledged the rumours but stated that the players are Milan’s until there is a change in their status.
Leão has been a key player for Milan since joining from Lille in 2019, contributing significantly to their Serie A title win in 2022. He has continued to be a consistent performer, though Milan’s recent financial situation has led to speculation about potential sales of key assets.
