Rafael Leão is prepared to reject Fenerbahce‘s proposal as the Portugal international prioritises Champions League football, forcing AC Milan to pin their hopes on Galatasaray securing an alternative transfer this summer.
According to MilanNews, the 27-year-old winger has turned down the Istanbul club’s offer despite terms reportedly worth €8 million per season plus up to €4 million in performance-related bonuses. Other reports suggest the proposal reached €10 million annually. Either package would represent a significant increase on his current wages as the club’s highest earner, yet Leão maintains he will only consider sides competing in Europe’s premier competition next term.
Both player and club agree that his seven-year spell at San Siro should end, with neither party interested in discussing a new contract. However, the forward must fulfil his existing obligations and report for pre-season training at Milanello on 29 July.
Training return looms
Speaking to Brazilian podcast Podpah, Leão confirmed he has held discussions with officials regarding a potential departure but remains uncertain where he will feature next season. He indicated he would “show up at Milanello on the 29th” as required, acknowledging that while the club “has helped me a lot,” he harbours ambitions for a new challenge.
He admitted he would “study the options” but stressed that for now, he remains a Milan player. The forward is currently on holiday in Brazil following Portugal’s involvement in the 2026 World Cup in North America.
Limited exit routes
Milan had hoped Premier League interest would materialise given Leão’s dream of playing in England, yet Manchester United, Arsenal and Liverpool have not demonstrated concrete interest in securing his signature. This impasse leaves Galatasaray as the most viable current option, with the Super Lig champions able to offer Champions League football.
With Fenerbahce now effectively excluded by the player’s European requirements, Milan hope Galatasaray can convince Leão to relocate to Turkey, particularly given he vacationed in the country with his family earlier this summer. The coming weeks will prove decisive in determining whether the forward begins an eighth season in Serie A or secures a move elsewhere.