Aston Villa make 'serious' approach to sign Rafael Leao from AC Milan
Quick summary
Aston Villa have made a formal approach to sign AC Milan and Portugal forward Rafael Leao, who is reportedly open to leaving the Serie A club.
Full article
Attributed to original sourceAston Villa have made an approach for AC Milan forward Rafael Leao, according to Sky in Italy.
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What happened
Aston Villa have tabled a significant offer to lure Rafael Leao away from AC Milan, with the Portuguese forward understood to be open to a departure from the San Siro. The 25-year-old has been one of Milan's most influential attackers in recent seasons and was a key figure in their 2021-22 Scudetto triumph. Villa's aggressive push signals the club's continued ambition under Unai Emery, as they look to strengthen their attacking options ahead of a campaign that will include Champions League football.
Chance analysis
Aston Villa's pursuit of Rafael Leao underlines the scale of their project under Unai Emery, who has transformed the club from a mid-table side into a Champions League participant. Landing a player of Leao's calibre would be a statement signing, adding elite-level creativity and pace to an already well-structured side. For Milan, losing a player they signed for around €28 million and who has been central to their attacking identity would be a significant blow, both technically and financially, as they seek to reshape their squad.
A potential marquee attacking addition for Aston Villa and a significant outgoing for AC Milan if completed.