In addition to strengthening the squad with the right signings, AC Milan will also have to tackle the issue of Rafael Leao’s renewal this summer.
As reported this morning by Tuttosport (via MilanNews), the negotiations will be complicated despite the fact that Leao has already expressed his intention to remain with the Rossoneri. The issue between the winger and Sporting CP – his former club – means he must pay them half of the €19m fine after the unilateral termination of his contract.
This is where agent Jorge Mendes comes into play. He intends to help his client with the fine, but there is the possibility that he may look to recoup money on the commissions he earns from his clients, Leao included.
For this reason Leao’s requests have risen to €7m net per season plus commissions, and though Milan had also stepped forward to help Leao pay his debt, that offer was declined. The Rossoneri management know the importance of Leao within the team and want to keep him, but it will be necessary to understand if they are willing to make a sacrifice and break their salary ceiling.
Otherwise, if an agreement is not found, Milan could be forced to put the former Lille man on the market starting from next summer so as not to run the risk of losing him on a free transfer.
