After reports of intense negotiations towards the end of last season, things have gone quiet on the Rafael Leao renewal front.
La Gazzetta dello Sport writes that ‘there has been no progress so far’ because the last round of talks ‘ended in an unpleasant stalemate’. However, Milan consider Leao one of the five or six essential parts of the squad moving forward.
Leao’s performances have attracted interest from the likes of PSG who made an offer of €70m when Leonardo was the sporting director, but it was rejected and the Rossoneri are protected by a €150m clause that has been included in Rafa’s contract since his arrival from Lille.
After a decidedly static June due to the change in ownership and the delayed renewals of Maldini and Massara, the priority of the Rossoneri is to strengthen the squad with an attacking midfielder, a right winger and a midfielder.
Key renewals are also on the agenda but not in the immediacy, because time and clarity are needed. Leao has made his desire to stay at Milanello clear but the demand is €6m net per season plus bonuses.
Salaries are a very sensitive topic at Casa Milan because of the internal ceiling and negotiations over signings to take the next step, but the management are clear that they want to avoid at all costs a situation where Leao is just one year from his expiry.
