In a recent report from Manchester Evening News, it was mentioned that Manchester City will have to offer more than £100 million if they wish to sign Rafael Leao from AC Milan. The Sky Blues have continued to be linked with the Serie A forward but the asking price could make them reconsider.
Leao’s Recent Form In Italian Football
Leao had a terrific campaign at San Siro as he produced a series of influential displays for AC Milan in the attacking third. The 23-year-old scored 14 goals and produced 12 assists over 42 appearances for the Italian giants last season on all fronts. Furthermore, he has had a solid start this season scoring 3 goals and creating 5 assists in 8 matches across all competitions.
The Almada-born talent has been more than reliable in the final third based on his average of 4.2 shots, 1.7 key passes and 1.8 dribbles so far in the Serie A. He has certainly worked on his ball distribution as evidenced by his pass completion rate of 81.9% in the Italian first division (stats via whoscored).
Will Guardiola Bring Him To Manchester City?
Leao has been a goal threat in the attacking third; he excels at getting past his defender with his pace and excellent ball control. He doesn’t mind taking a shot at the goal from a distance and remains confident in converting chances inside the penalty box. Furthermore, the Portuguese forward can also make some decisive passes to set up his teammates in front of the goal.
The Portuguese sensation can cause a lot of problems for his marker out in the wide areas. There is no denying that the talented winger has what it takes to become a future star in European football and that is why the Mancunian giants have been keeping an eye on him.
However, with such a hefty asking price from the Italian side, City would certainly back off as the last time they spent £100 million was when they brought in Jack Grealish in the summer of 2021 and the highest they’ve paid this summer was £52 million for Erling Haaland. So it wouldn’t be wise for Guardiola to bring Leao with such a huge sum involved. However, if AC Milan decide to lower the price then the Sky Blues could certainly strike a deal.
