Phil Foden has emerged as a surprise target for AC Milan, with the Manchester City playmaker offered to the Serie A club as a potential replacement for Rafael Leão.
According to reports, an intermediary has proposed the England international to the Rossoneri, who are giving the profile genuine consideration. The approach comes as Milan prepare for the possible exit of Leão, with Tottenham among the clubs interested in the Portuguese winger.
The Financial Picture
Manchester City have set an asking price of €50-60 million for Foden, a fee Milan believe could be covered almost entirely by selling Leão. The wage structures align conveniently for the Italian club, as both players earn approximately €7-7.5 million per season, making the swap financially neutral in terms of the wage bill.
Foden’s contract at the Etihad Stadium expires in 2027, and sources indicate he has no intention of signing an extension. This follows a difficult campaign for the 24-year-old, whose relationship with the club became strained to the point that England manager Thomas Tuchel omitted him from the World Cup squad.
Complicated Conditions
Despite the attractive numbers, the transfer remains a distant scenario rather than an active negotiation. Two significant obstacles must be cleared before any deal could advance.
First, Milan must complete Leão’s departure to fund the operation. Second, City will reportedly only sanction Foden’s exit after securing a marquee replacement of their own, with Chelsea’s Enzo Fernández described as their primary target.
The domino effect required makes this a speculative proposition for now. However, it signals the calibre of player Milan are targeting as they plan for a future potentially without their star winger.