Amid rumours of a transfer to Arsenal, the true thoughts of new AC Milan manager Massimiliano Allegri about winger Rafael Leao have finally come to light.
The Gunners have completed their first two summer signings in goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga and midfielder Martin Zubimendi. The total spend therefore sits at £60m and the intention is not to stop there.
Movement has accelerated towards making Viktor Gyokeres of Sporting CP the sought-after striker ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, football.london understands. Meanwhile they have also made an advance towards recruiting Brentford midfielder Christian Norgaard.
Whilst this takes place, the next great intrigue is how Mikel Arteta could further enhance his attacking ranks after his team finished as Premier League runners-up last term, failing to hit the 70-goal mark.
Amongst other wingers, Leao, 26, has found himself linked with the switch to the Emirates Stadium with it claimed sporting director Andrea Berta has previously established contact. However, it appears the winger is thought of in high regard by the new regime at the San Siro.
“I’m sure Leao will have a great season,” Allegri told reporters, speaking for the first time since confirmation he would be taking a second stint in charge of Milan.
“He’s coming of age. Usually a player’s most important years are between 26 and 30.
“I think he’s more responsible, I met him this morning and spoke to him. I think there are all the conditions to do well.”
Interestingly, Arsenal should get a face-to-face meeting with Leao this month. Not to discuss contracts either side of a desk, but on the field of play as Arteta’s side have their first friendly scheduled against Milan on Wednesday, July 23, in Singapore.
At least there is the opportunity to see how he fits into Allegri’s system, albeit at a stage rather soon to draw conclusions.
The player has returned to Milan as they began pre-season training on Monday.
Uncertainty unravelled over the Portuguese international’s future following the 2024/25 campaign’s conclusion. He had recorded eight goals and 10 assists but was still unable to fire his team to any sort of European qualification for 2025/26.
Leao may be under contract with the Rossoneri until 2028 but having spent the last six years with them a new challenge could prove too tempting.
The player himself even fuelled speculation by sporting a t-shirt adorned with Gunners legend Thierry Henry’s face over the summer break.
Leao was quoted by Gazzetta dello Sport in 2023 discussing his potential next career move. He said: “Premier League. I think every player wants to play in the Premier League because it’s a very competitive league.
“It has engaging football, great teams and a worldwide audience.
“Serie A is currently very well positioned in the football world but I would definitely have to say the Premier League in the future.”
