Not long ago, there was talk of a possible renewal for Rafael Leao and an even longer term future at AC Milan. Now, the narrative has changed.
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As La Gazzetta dello Sport (seen below) write this morning, the new Leao is a striker who sacrifices himself in a role that isn’t his own and takes to the field even if he isn’t in top condition. Why? Because the team comes first.
Rafa has given up the open space he once had on the left flank to seek a few centimetres of space inside the penalty area. He’s no longer a full-time winger, but a centre-forward who can move slowly or quickly – the important thing is that he arrives on time to make contact with the ball.
Massimiliano Allegri’s initial plans were for him and Christian Pulisic to exploit quick counter-attacks but this proved more complex, so much so that Pulisic seemed to have exhausted his goal reserves by the end of December.
Rafa’s rage
Leao’s frustration at the Olimpico on Sunday night was evident, as he left the pitch slowly (to the ire of sporting director Igli Tare in the stands). He also walked past Maignan’s conciliatory attempt and Allegri’s embrace, seemingly unhappy about a lack of service.
The scene wasn’t particularly impressive, but the positive thing is that Rafa wanted to stay on the pitch in an attempt to finally help the team. For this reason, no fine or official warning was issued by the club, because it was perceived that he demonstrated the competitive spirit that can’t hurt.
What happens now though is anyone’s guess. Allegri is unlikely to change the formation to accommodate Rafa, instead focusing on two strikers. For this reason, and given the overall trajectory of Leao’s career (he hasn’t really kicked on since 2022/2023) the club will consider any offers.
The potential contract renewal until June 2030 doesn’t rule out this prospect, even if MilanNews claimed that talks are on hold. On the contrary, the real question is who could afford a hefty deal for a player who isn’t currently among the top players in his position.
The market and replacements
Leao has a €170m release clause, a figure currently far from his true value, which would be ‘much less’, perhaps around €80m. There is possible interest from the Premier League and Saudi Arabia to keep an eye on, while his salary is €5.5m net per season plus bonuses.
Any offer, however, will have to be commensurate with the situation, and with a striker who despite his inconsistencies has nevertheless scored 80 goals (with only two penalties) in 284 AC Milan appearances.
Who could replace him? Milan could take a look at Antonio Nusa, who has scored three goals in 27 games for RB Leipzig. The German side are currently fifth in the Bundesliga, out of the Champions League.
Failure to qualify for the European competition could convince the Red Bull club to sell the star player. His value is around €35m and Milan are monitoring his situation, but again he is definitely not a natural striker.