For the past few months, there have been frequent claims in Italy about Manchester City’s interest in Rafael Leão.
On March 22nd, Calciomercato reported that Pep Guardiola is a long-term admirer of the AC Milan star.
Last month, La Repubblica said Manchester City’s ability to win silverware regularly and Guardiola’s presence are strong weapons to seduce the winger. His deal expires in 2024 and the Serie A winners are trying to extend his contract.
The Portugal international’s renewal talks have been going on for months but had been slowed down due to the change of the club’s ownership. On Wednesday, Milan confirmed RedBird Capital Partners have reached an agreement to acquire the San Siro club.
Pianeta Milan now claim the Rossoneri proposed a new deal until 2026, which will triple his wages from €1.5m to €4.5m per year. This is ‘no longer enough’ for his agent, Jorge Mendes, ‘in light of interest’ from Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid.
With City and others showing interest in his client, the super-agent is asking Milan for a deal worth €6.5-7m per season for Leão. This would be easily achievable for the likes of Guardiola’s side and PSG.
Milan, for their part, want to increase the release clause from €150m to €200-250m with a new contract. They are clear the player is ‘not transferable’ and is ‘deemed not to be sold’ this summer.
It’s not clear whether Stefano Pioli’s side will maintain the same stance if no progress is made in the renewal talks. Leão finished the 2021/22 season with 14 goals and 12 assists in all competitions.
