Arsenal have reportedly been presented with the opportunity to sign AC Milan star Rafael Leao this summer. This follows the Portugal international’s recent confirmation that he will depart Milan.
The winger is understood to be available for approximately £43million after the Serie A giants were forced to settle for Europa League football this season. The 26-year-old has consistently been linked with a switch to English football, particularly Chelsea, while Manchester United have also been mentioned.
And it is now being reported in the Times that Arsenal have been offered Leao, with the Gunners anticipated to bolster their attacking options this summer. The Portugal international has registered 80 goals and 65 assists across 227 league appearances in Italy’s top division.
However, the forward is now seeking a fresh challenge. Speaking to Sport TV Portugal, he said: “I’m proud as I made history at AC Milan but I want new chapter.
“I feel ready to play in another league. I did my best for Milan, but it’s time to try another challenge.”
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Leao was utilised predominantly through the centre as a striker for Milan this season, with just three of his 29 league appearances coming from the left flank, though he has been most effective operating from the left – netting 61 times and providing 56 assists in 208 outings.
A switch to Turkey has also been suggested for Leao, with Fenerbahce and Galatasaray both linked. However, Fener won’t be securing his signature this summer.
View 2 ImagesRafael Leao has reportedly been offered to Arsenal(Image: Getty Images)
This follows the club’s presidential candidate Safi holding talks with Leao last week and concluding that he wouldn’t become their next “hitman” heading into the 2026/27 campaign.
Speaking in a press conference, he said: “I met Leao a few days ago, but after 10 minutes of chatting, I realised he won’t be our hitman.”
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“How did I realise that? Because we asked, we looked into it.”
The Gunners are set to make bolstering their attack a top priority as part of a wider squad rebuild following their heartbreaking Champions League final loss.
Arteta is understood to have identified a left winger, striker, right-back and a new midfielder as the positions he wishes to reinforce over the summer.