Arsenal transfer target Rafael Leao has been shown a straight red card after appearing to punch a Chile player during Portugal’s penultimate World Cup warm-up clash.
The winger, who is expected to leave AC Milan this summer, got involved in a brawl on the side of the pitch which saw him push an opponent several times before striking him in the face.
Following VAR intervention, Leao was sent off for violent conduct with Chile’s Ivan Roman also dismissed.
Leao has been linked with several Premier League clubs including the Gunners, Manchester United and Chelsea as he is set to depart San Siro ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Reports in Italy have claimed all of those sides have been offered the chance to sign Leao but thus far none have taken up that opportunity.
Speaking on his future to Sport TV in Portugal, Leao said: “I already won two trophies in Italy and have been there for a while. The League is evolving, but for my style of football, I think the Premier League or LaLiga would make more of my talent, as a player.
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“If a Premier League opportunity were to come along, I would be very happy. I think that I can put my talent up against the players there, who are of a very high level. Playing in that kind of a league really gets the best out of a player.”
The 26-year-old would have likely been hoping a strong World Cup could have helped his chances of sealing a transfer this summer.
However, that plan has got off to the worst possible start with Leao leaving his Portugal team-mates a man down after being dismissed.
Portugal kick off their World Cup campaign against DR Congo on Wednesday, June 17 with Roberto Martinez set for a big Leao decision after his actions.
A possible hint on his minutes will likely be clear the Wednesday before when Portugal take on Nigeria in their final friendly before the tournament begins.
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Uzbekistan and Colombia take on Portugal later in the group stages with Leao hoping to make an impression and also redeem himself after being sent off this evening.