European giants close the doors on €70 million-rated Barcelona target’s departure | OneFootball

Following the rejection of Nico Williams for a second year, FC Barcelona have re-entered the market for a player on the left flank.

Luis Diaz of Liverpool and Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford are the primary alternatives for Barça, but AC Milan forward Rafael Leao is also on the agenda.

The 26-year-old Portuguese ace has long been admired by Joan Laporta, and the club’s close relationship with Jorge Mendes, who has an influence in Leao’s camp, makes him a viable target.

AC Milan rule out Leao sale

However, Leao will not be leaving AC Milan this summer, barring any unexpected developments.

This was made clear by manager Massimiliano Allegri during his presentation as the new head coach of the Rossoneri, where he expressed his satisfaction at retaining the Portuguese forward for the upcoming season.

Allegri has ruled out Leao’s exit. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

“I’m glad Leao is staying too; he’s going to have a great season. I think Leao is now more mature as a player and has all the conditions to do well,” Allegri said, as quoted by Mundo Deportivo.

Leao endured a difficult 2024/25 campaign, having had some personal problems with former manager Paulo Fonseca. It gave way to speculations about a possible exit, putting Barcelona on alert.

Bayern Munich, for their part, had also shown an interest in the Portuguese international in their bid to sign a new left-winger.

However, it is clear from Allegri’s statements that unless something substantial happens, Leao will stay put at AC Milan this summer.

*Player valuation in title obtained from transfermarkt.com on date of publication.