AC Milan have two specific scenarios in mind that can happen in the summer in regard to the future of Rafael Leao, a report claims.
As has been reported by Corriere della Sera (via Milan News), the Rossoneri are not expecting any major news in regard to the contract discussions with Leao until June at the earliest.
Once the issue is addressed again, there are only two options. The forward will either renew his contract, or he will be sold. They do not want him to run his contract down and leave in the summer of 2024 on a free transfer.
All of the focus at the club is now on finishing the season in the best way possible, given they are in a fierce battle to finish in the top four and also have a Champions League semi-final against Inter to think about.
There is no need to distract Leao with contract talks at this stage.
Have to hand it to Leao.
He has risen to the challenge of pretty extreme pressure in the last 4 to 6 weeks.
In this form, we can be comfortable with the outcome of his re-signing saga, whatever it is. With him playing out of his skin he can deliver top 4 and even UCL cup number 8.
More realistically, he probably should and will deliver top 4 and a runner-up UCL finish. I suspect that will make it impossible for us to keep him. The money that will be offered to and for him will be outrageous. After all, there are maybe 5 players in the world who can take a game apart the way he does.
4 to 6 weeks ago we were faced with a stuttering campaign, that might max out in a UCL quarter final, and a Leao who wanted out not playing anywhere near the level required for the money his sale should attract.
I’m still resigned to losing him. At least if he leaves now we’re going to be able to use the money to replace him with 3 or 4 quality players.