Leao renewal edges closer as AC Milan open talks with Sporting

AC Milan are making progress on the contract renewal of Rafael Leao. Milan are also negotiating the fine payment with Sporting Lisbon.

After two years of ups and downs Rafael Leao managed to cement his status as a key AC Milan player last season. The Portuguese left winger played a crucial role in the Scudetto triumph and was named as Serie A Most Valuable Player for his performances. The 23-year-old has started the new season on the right foot with 3 goals and 6 assists in 8 appearances so far.

Obviously, AC Milan want to tie Leao to fresh terms. The current contract of Rafael expires in 2024 and the Rossoneri are negotiating a new five-year contract that would make the Portuguese the highest AC Milan player. A fair reward for the player’s excellent performances. Finally things look headed towards a positive conclusion.

The new owner of AC Milan, Gerry Cardinale, has decided to exceed Elliott’s strict rule regarding renewals by offering the left winger more than the limit of €4.5 million. Tuttosport reports that AC Milan will offer Rafael Leao €6 million plus one million in bonuses. That’s very close to the €8 million figure that his agent Jorge Mendes has asked.

An agreement on the salary is not a problem after the green light from Cardinale. Instead, the Rossoneri must also deal with the €20 million astronomical fine that Rafael Leao and Lille owe to Sporting Lisbon after the arbitrary breach of contract that took place during his transfer to the French club in 2018.

AC Milan have contacted Sporting Lisbon to negotiate a lower compensation, probably close to €12 million. Two meetings have taken place between the representatives of the two clubs reports Portuguese newspaper A Bola. However, so far, Sporting president Frederico Varandas have refused to compromise insisting on the full fine payment. The Rossoneri, on the other hand, are willing to pay a part of the fee.

READ MORE: AC Milan new arrival named worst summer signing