Tottenham Hotspur have rejected the opportunity to sign AC Milan winger Rafael Leão, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. The Portugal international’s representatives proposed the move to the Premier League club, but Spurs showed little enthusiasm for the deal.
Leão, 25, has publicly declared his desire to leave San Siro this summer. He recently stated that he has “given his all” to the Rossoneri and is ready for a “new adventure”, suggesting the Premier League or LaLiga would better suit his playing style. However, attracting a buyer willing to meet Milan’s €60m asking price has proven challenging.
Milan keen to offload
The Italian giants have no intention of extending Leão’s contract beyond its current expiry date in June 2028. Instead, they are actively seeking to remove his significant salary from their wage bill as they reshape their squad.
New manager Ruben Amorim has further fuelled speculation about Leão’s departure by indicating that Christian Pulisic’s “ideal” position is on the left side of attack. This is the role Leão currently occupies, which would force the United States international to operate on the right flank should both players remain at the club.
Alternative destinations
With Tottenham declining to enter negotiations, Leão’s options appear limited. Romano reports that only Portuguese side Benfica and Turkish club Galatasaray have shown genuine interest in securing the winger’s signature.
Leão joined Milan from Lille in 2019 and played a crucial role in their 2021-22 Serie A triumph. However, his relationship with the club has deteriorated, creating a situation where both player and employer are eager to separate before the transfer window closes.
The coming weeks will prove critical for the Portugal international as he seeks to secure a move away from Milan.