Thousands welcome Leão in Istanbul
Rafael Leão has completed his move from AC Milan to Galatasaray, arriving in Istanbul to a rapturous reception from thousands of fans. The Portugal international touched down to finalise a transfer that sees him leave Serie A after seven years, turning down a rival proposal from Aston Villa to link up with the Turkish giants.
The winger was greeted by screaming supporters who surrounded his vehicle as he made his way from the airport. “I hope I can give really good joy to the Galatasaray fans,” Leão told reporters amid the chaos. The transfer marks the end of his seven-year association with Milan, where he established himself as one of the division’s most dangerous attackers.
Financial package
Galatasaray have paid Milan a fee in the region of €43-45 million, with an additional €2 million in bonuses. The Italian club will also receive 20 to 25 per cent of any future sale. The package eclipsed Aston Villa’s offer, which was described as significantly lower in both transfer fee and proposed salary terms.
Leão is expected to earn approximately €12 million per season in wages. The salary reflects Galatasaray’s ambition to attract elite talent to the Süper Lig, with the club having pursued the forward since June. The ability to offer Champions League football proved decisive in securing his signature ahead of Premier League interest.
Reuniting with Osimhen
The arrival of Leão gives Galatasaray one of the most potent attacking duos in European football outside the traditional top five leagues. He will partner Nigeria international Victor Osimhen, who joined from Napoli earlier this year.
“Osimhen is a really good friend, I think we will do good things together for Galatasaray,” Leão said. “We are in the Champions League, want to win the League, so I am excited.”
Leão expressed gratitude to the club’s hierarchy for pushing the deal through. “Galatasaray was looking for this deal to push through from June, the President and vice president did a really good job. Thank you to all the guys who made the deal happen. It’s a good opportunity for me and I will do my best.”