Di Marzio: AC Milan make clear stance on Leao
Gianluca Di Marzio reports the latest on AC Milan winger Rafael Leao who is being followed by important clubs.
Rafael Leao has been AC Milan’s extra weapon this season. The 22-year-old Portuguese left winger has stepped in during a time when the Rossoneri needed him most. Leao has provided the necessary goals and assists when Ibrahimovic was out and Giroud lacked consistency.
For the first time in his career, Rafael Leao has reached double figures in a single season. In 39 appearances, the flamboyant left winger has scored 13 goals and provided 7 assists. His solo goal against Fiorentina decided the final result of the match and puts AC Milan in a comfortable position for the Scuetto.
Despite some ups and downs, Leao has proved throughout the season to be one of the best players in Serie A. He must find more continuity but the Rossoneri are confident they have in their ranks one of the brightest youngsters in European football. Great performances have attracted the attention of many important clubs.
Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City are reportedly following with the great interest the evolution of Leao. The Portuguese winger has a contract with AC Milan until 2024. The parties are negotiating a contract extension but so far nothing has been signed. Nevertheless, AC Milan’s stance on Leao is clear. Rafael will stay under Pioli’s orders reports Gianluca Di Marzio.
“Leao is liked by big European clubs since last year. They are not looking only at the numbers but also the qualities and characteristics of the player. Even in a moment that he was not as brilliant as he could have been a season ago, Maldini and Massara were clear with everyone, declaring that the player is not for sale. ‘Everyone, but not Leao’, the two managers would have said. Investcorp also seems to want to follow this path, simply because I don’t think they want to introduce themselves to new fans by selling such an important player“, said Di Marzio.
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