It has been a rather interesting few days for Rafael Leao, as there continues to be speculation regarding his future at AC Milan while he is away at the European Championship.
The 2023-24 season was an interesting one for Leao as he racked up 15 goals and 14 assists across all competitions, but it was another campaign in which he alternated world class performances with anonymous ones, and endured further goal droughts.
As one of the most talented players in Serie A the headlines are never too far away from the Portuguese, and that has certainly remained the case in recent days. If you think you can call the future, check out different soccer betting options.
Calls from Arabia
It has been speculated in the last few days that Leao is the subject of interest from Saudi clubs above all Al-Hilal who are reportedly readying a nine-figure bid to try and tempt all involved.
The team that won the last league title in the Saudi Pro League are ready to offer €100m to Milan for Leao and they will table a huge contract offer to the ex-Lille winger to try and tempt him.
However, the former Lille man would like to stay with the Rossoneri and in all likelihood the advance will be rejected because he has no plans to move to Saudi Arabia at this stage in his young career.
Martinez’s misuse
There was great anticipation for Leao, making his debut at a European Championship. The Portuguese fans are waiting for an heir to Cristiano Ronaldo, and his potential had placed the forward among the candidates.
Roberto Martinez decided to use him in a front two during their late win against the Czech Republic in their first group game. He played up top with Ronaldo but with the license to drift out to the left.
However, what ended up following was a performance in which he did little of note barring a couple of surges and a cross that was headed wide. Many will say that the role clearly isn’t one he was comfortable in, and they’d have a point.
He got a yellow card for simulation, waved in his face by the Italian referee Guida, then in the 63rd minute the change came with the coach preferred to bring the curtain down on his performance by putting Diogo Jota on after the unexpected goal that gave the Czech lead scored by Provod.