Rafael Leao’s anticipated exit from AC Milan this summer faces mounting uncertainty as neither Galatasaray nor Fenerbahce have sealed a deal for the Portuguese forward.
With just weeks left in the transfer window, Italian sources increasingly suggest that Leao may remain at the San Siro for the 2026-27 season, despite earlier signals that he was ready for a new challenge.
The 26-year-old, who has been a key figure at Milan for seven seasons, has publicly expressed his desire to move on this summer. Leao has long targeted a move to a top European league, specifically the Premier League or LaLiga. However, the only concrete interest has emerged from Turkey, with both Galatasaray and Fenerbahce engaging in talks but failing to meet Milan’s financial expectations.
Reports over the weekend indicated that Fenerbahce was preparing a fresh offer close to €50 million for Leao. Yet, according to TMW, the player himself remains unconvinced by the proposal, and Milan’s stance remains firm: they will only consider outright sales starting from €60 million, with no tolerance for bids below €50 million. This rigid valuation has stalled negotiations, leaving Milan in a position where selling their prized asset is far from guaranteed.
Despite Milan’s determination to cash in on Leao, the transfer window’s rapid approach is casting doubt on whether a suitable buyer will emerge. Milannews.it describes the scenario of Leao staying as “unlikely but not impossible,” highlighting the growing chance that the forward could begin the next campaign in the iconic red and black shirt. Calciomercato echoes this sentiment, acknowledging Milan’s ongoing hope to finalize a sale but conceding that Leao might remain at the club if no deal materializes.
An additional factor potentially influencing Leao’s decision is the presence of compatriot Ruben Amorim in the Milan dugout. TMW notes that Amorim’s role could be a decisive element persuading Leao to stay put for another season, providing a familiar connection and support system within the club.
With Milan holding firm on their valuation and Leao undecided amid lukewarm interest from Turkish clubs, the transfer saga remains unresolved. As the window narrows, the prospect of Leao continuing his Milan tenure challenges earlier assumptions of an imminent departure.