Over the past couple of days, there has been a lot of chatter surrounding FC Barcelona and their alleged interest in signing Rafael Leao from AC Milan.
The 25-year-old Portuguese international is said to have become the club’s top target in the final phase of the transfer window after they missed out on Nico Williams.
Even though a move for Leao would be financially difficult, the Catalans were hopeful of pulling off the deal, with reports claiming that the player himself would be open to joining the La Liga giants.
AC Milan rule out exit
AC Milan, for their part, have always considered Leao ‘non-transferable’ despite the recent speculations linking him with Barcelona.
Now, the Rossoneri’s CEO, Giorgio Furlani has made it abundantly clear that Leao will not leave the Italian club this summer.
“Rafa Leao will NOT leave AC Milan this summer,” said Furlani, as quoted by Fabrizio Romano.
“Barcelona move? No chance. No way. He’s not leaving the club. 100%,” he added.
On being further questioned if Leao himself asks to leave the club, Furlani defiantly replied: “He’s not gonna ask to leave the club.”
Concluding, he added: “I think my message is quite clear, no?”
Federico Chiesa the best option?
With a move for Leao now all but ruled out, Juventus winger Federico Chiesa might be the best-placed option for Barcelona to reinforce the left flank.
Earlier reports suggested that the Catalans would wait to receive a definitive ‘no’ on the Leao operation before moving for Chiesa.
With Furlani making it very clear that Milan will not sell, Barcelona could now turn their full focus on signing Chiesa, who has the approval of manager Hansi Flick.
