Why Rafa Leão Should Stay at Milan This Season

Despite AC Milan being reportedly open to offers for their prominent forward, Rafa Leão, none of the bids received have been substantial enough to tempt him away from San Siro. The club recently turned down a €35 million offer from Galatasaray. Furthermore, journalist Ben Jacobs has indicated that the 27-year-old attacker was presented to several Premier League clubs, including Leeds United.

Milan's asking price for Leão is close to €50 million. In return, Leão himself would expect any potential suitors to at least match his current annual salary of €7 million, if not offer an improvement. However, with pre-season drawing to a close and the new campaign on the horizon, it's worth questioning whether Leão's situation at Milan is truly untenable. Could he not remain with the club?

In reality, he very well can, and it's even possible that he might wish to stay. Leão faced considerable criticism last season for his perceived lack of goal-scoring output, with the San Siro faithful making their feelings known. Yet, Leão was by no means the sole underperformer in Milan's attack, which faltered significantly as a collective unit. Throughout the previous season, no forward, including prominent names, delivered a standout individual campaign.

When players with similar profiles struggle in unison, the underlying issues are rarely individual and are almost always systemic. The red half of Milan is currently experiencing such widespread challenges. Milan has, frankly, failed to inspire much confidence in the launch of their new era and revamped vision. There are few indications of solid foundations being laid for sustained success. Nevertheless, the club possesses the necessary resources to compete effectively in the present, which is precisely what new coach Ruben Amorim and his players will aim to concentrate on – maximizing their current potential.

Leão has two years remaining on his contract. It's difficult to foresee his 2026/27 campaign being worse than the previous one. He will have a point to prove, much like Amorim, who is looking to rebound after his unsuccessful tenure in Manchester. Within his compatriot's 3-4-2-1 tactical system, Leão would be well-suited to a left-wing role, where he could influence the game from a wide position, almost functioning as a 'number 10' from the flank, dictating play with the ball at his feet.

Furthermore, Leão and Amorim are not the only ones with something to prove. The entire team collectively underperformed, culminating in a late-season slide down the Serie A table. They will be eager to make a strong showing in the Europa League. This sentiment applies to both the new signings, who had limited opportunities last season and now have a fresh start to secure a place in the starting XI, and the established players who had ample chances to deliver but fell short of expectations.

Ultimately, if Leão's performances do not improve, or if Amorim determines he is not a key part of his plans, it's reasonable to assume that clubs across Europe, from England to Turkey, would still be willing to make offers in the region of €30–40 million for him, both in January and next summer. Is this a risk worth taking? Absolutely.

Not so long ago, Leão was considered among the elite forwards in the game. The memories of those performances and the potential they hinted at are what other clubs will recall and consider if they move for him. While Milan is understandably looking to facilitate a departure, both the club and Leão can afford to give it another attempt and explore whether they can resolve their issues internally. If a resolution proves impossible this season, further opportunities for his eventual exit will undoubtedly arise.

Anshuman Joshi | GIFN