Stefano Pioli has revealed that he does not feel worried about the negotiations over the renewal of Rafael Leao’s contract which are very much on the horizon.
In 42 overall appearances last season Leao scored 14 goals and added 12 assists, attracting the attention of the strongest clubs in Europe and meaning that his value has skyrocketed.
MilanNews reported that Milan have an appointment with Leao on their agenda to talk about the contract renewal as they want to extend his deal up until 2027, offering him a salary that goes beyond the current internal salary cap imposed at €4.5m net per season with Paolo Maldini and the ownership ready to make an exception.
Pioli gave a long interview to La Gazzetta dello Sport in which he talked about a number of different topics including the upcoming season, new signings Charles De Ketelaere and Yacine Adli plus the strength of his team.
As part of the interview he was asked whether Leao will still be a crucial part of his team even when the decisive phase of negotiations over the extension of his contract arrive.
“If he maintains this level, yes. Otherwise Rebic is there. I’m not at all worried about contractual matters, you can see that he is happy to be with us,” he said (via PianetaMilan).
“Potentially he is a champion, for strength and ability to jump man. He has many goals in his legs, even more than last year. He has grown a lot without the ball, now he must be able to occupy the area better.”
