Roma revive Leao interest as Soule loan swap floated with Milan
Quick summary
Roma have reignited their interest in AC Milan's Rafael Leao, with a proposed swap involving Matias Soule going on loan to Milan.
Full article
Attributed to original sourceRoma have re-emerged as a possible destination for Rafael Leao in the closing days of the transfer window, with a loan exchange involving Matias Soule floated as a means of bridging the financial gap.
According to Calciomercato.it , the Roma option has gained traction again in recent hours, having first been reported by the outlet in late July.
The obstacle remains the Portuguese forward’s substantial wages, though a swap of loans with Soule could satisfy both clubs.
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) No concrete negotiation yet over Leao The outlet is clear that nothing formal is underway, while adding that the move cannot be ruled out as the standout Serie A deal of the closing window.
The framework would also need Milan to soften their stance, the Rossoneri having insisted all summer on a permanent sale or a paid loan carrying an obligation to buy.
Leao has spoken publicly of wanting a new challenge after seven years at San Siro, and Milan have cut their asking price from an initial €60m to around €45m. Galatasaray’s offer of roughly €35m plus bonuses has not met that figure.
Reports in Italy earlier this week that Roma had already made contact before stepping back, deterred by the cost and by Leao’s preference for a move abroad rather than to another Serie A club. His contract runs to June 2028.
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What happened
Roma are reportedly exploring a move for Rafael Leao, whose future at AC Milan has been the subject of growing speculation. The proposed structure would see Argentine winger Matias Soule move to Milan on loan as part of the deal. Leao's inconsistent form and contract situation have fueled doubts about his long-term role at San Siro, while Roma are seeking a high-profile attacking reinforcement. The swap-style arrangement would give both clubs financial flexibility, with Soule's Serie A experience making him a plausible short-term option for Milan.
Chance analysis
Rafael Leao has long been one of Serie A's most enigmatic talents — capable of match-winning moments but frustratingly inconsistent. If Roma can pry him away from Milan, it would represent a major statement of intent, giving Gian Piero Gasperini's side the explosive wide threat they have lacked. For Milan, recouping value while bringing in Soule on loan softens the blow, though losing a player of Leao's ceiling would sting. The deal is far from done, but it underlines how fluid the Italian transfer market remains into the summer.
If completed, Milan lose a key attacking weapon but gain short-term depth, while Roma add elite pace and creativity to their frontline.