Leao has decided on Aston Villa but Milan remain unsatisfied
Quick summary
Rafael Leao has reportedly chosen Aston Villa as his preferred destination, but AC Milan are still not happy with the terms being offered for the Portuguese forward.
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Attributed to original sourceThe latest updates confirm that Rafael Leao is continuing to give his priority to Aston Villa rather than Galatasaray, but the Premier League side have not yet come up with an offer that has satisfied Milan.
Leao latest: Aston Villa priority, two potential offers for Milan Leao remains up for sale in the final week of the summer transfer window. The Portugal international has been pushing for a move away from San Siro since the end of the 2025-26 season, but that has not yet materialised.
DUBLIN, IRELAND – NOVEMBER 13: Rafael Leao of Portugal reacts after the team’s defeat during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Republic of Ireland and Portugal at Aviva Stadium on November 13, 2025 in Dublin, Ireland. (Photo by Charles McQuillan/Getty Images) Reports over the last few days indicate that A ston Villa and Galatasaray are the two clubs vying to land his signature . The latest updates in Italy claim that Leao’s preference is Villa and the Premier League, even if Galatasaray are prepared to offer more money on personal terms.
According to the latest updates from Sky Sport Italia transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio , Aston Villa have raised their salary offer to €7.5m net per season. Previous reports have claimed that Galatasaray are willing to offer around €10m-€12m in wages.
Despite having Leao’s preference, Villa have not yet come to an agreement with Milan.
PERTH, AUSTRALIA – AUGUST 05: Rafael Leao of AC Milan makes a run towards goal during the pre-season match between AC Milan and FC Internazionale at Optus Stadium on August 05, 2026 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by James Worsfold/Getty Images) The Rossoneri are hoping to sell Leao outright this summer for a fee of €50m, whilst Villa have reportedly been discussing a loan deal with an €8m fee and an obligation to buy for an additional €42m to reach the €50m mark.
Friday’s reports from Calciomercato.com claim that Villa are also prepared to offer Milan an immediate, permanent solution, but for a fee of €46m with bonuses included.
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What happened
AC Milan star Rafael Leao has made his preference clear, reportedly choosing a move to Aston Villa over other suitors. However, negotiations are far from over, with Milan still unsatisfied with the proposal on the table. The Serie A club are holding out for terms they consider appropriate for one of their most valuable attacking assets. The standoff suggests the transfer will require further negotiation before any deal can be completed.
Chance analysis
Rafael Leao's apparent decision to favour Aston Villa marks a significant moment in what could become one of the Premier League's marquee summer moves. Milan's reluctance to accept current terms underlines the Portuguese forward's market value and the leverage they believe they retain. Should the move materialise, it would represent a statement of intent from Aston Villa, who continue to flex their growing financial muscle. The key question now is whether Villa will return with an improved offer that meets Milan's demands.
A completed deal would significantly weaken Milan's attacking depth while giving Aston Villa a world-class forward option.