Bayern Munich are desperately looking for attacking reinforcements following rejections from Florian Wirtz, who has moved to Liverpool and Nico Williams, who is on the verge of joining Barcelona.
So the German champions need someone to fill the void on the left flank, especially with Leroy Sane’s confirmed departure after the ongoing FIFA Club World Cup.
Therefore, they had stepped up their interest in AC Milan’s Rafael Leao as an alternative to Williams. Apart from him, there are a couple of more players, but he is surely in the shortlist.
However, they are yet to propose a formal transfer bid for the 26-year-old. Leao reportedly has fallen out with the Milan management, but considering his current contract, he may just stay at the club for another campaign.
Recently appointed, Milan sporting director Egli Tare addressed multiple rumours of Rossoneri players linked with other clubs. He also clarified the club’s stance on Leao.
“Leão is an exceptional player; he is a key player for us and our project, he is the key to the project in Milan,” he told journalists about Leao‘s future.
📲 Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
“Rafa will be key for our project. Bayern? We haven’t received any official offer so far. It’s only media rumours,” he replied when asked about Bayern Munich links.
Will Bayern Munich push for Leao?
Bayern Munich need a new winger who could play on the left, complementing their present players such as Jamal Musiala, Harry Kane, and Michael Olise in attack.
After facing disappointment in the current summer transfer window and therefore they are looking at Leao. While there’s no doubt about the 26-year-old’s skillset, there are some speculations over his attitude.
Recent reports from BILD suggest that Bayern board members are torn, as some believe in him while others are unsure about his work ethic, defensive discipline, and other issues around his attitude are proving to be a roadblock in this transfer.
However, even if Bayern Munich decide to land Leao, they will have to negotiate with Milan, who are not looking to let go of any more of their players since the reappointment of Massimiliano Allegri.
Earlier reports suggest that Milan had slapped a €100 million ($114.5 m) pricetag for the winger, given his current contract with the club runs until 2028.
In terms of performances, Leao didn’t have the best 2024/25 campaign as he netted eight goals and provided as many assists in 34 Serie A games. He has a rather disappointing outing in the Champions League with three goals and an assist in 10 appearances.
