According to Liverpool Echo, another rumor has emerged regarding Liverpool, they report that the Merseyside club and Real Madrid are both vying for the signature of AC Milan’s Rafael Leao. Both clubs are said to be in pursuit of the player and are prepared to compete for a deal that could potentially reach €150 million.
Leao’s Impressive Start To Italian Football This Season
Leao is enjoying an impressive campaign at San Siro after performing at a high level on the left side of AC Milan’s attack. The former Sporting talent has scored two goals and picked up one assist in 5 matches for the Italian club this season across all fronts.
The 24-year-old has been a consistent performer for AC Milan in the final third as he is averaging 1.8 shots, 1.8 key passes and 2.8 dribbles per 90 minutes in Serie A.
He has even been efficient when distributing the ball in the opponent’s half after making 73.4% of his attempted passes in the Italian top-flight (stats via whoscored).
The talented winger’s existing contract with AC Milan is scheduled to expire in 2028. Consequently, the Reds and Los Blancos might have to pay a huge sum to secure his services should they opt to pursue him in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Should Klopp Bring Him To Liverpool Next Summer?
Leao has firmly established himself as a dependable presence in the offensive third of the pitch. His blistering pace allows him to outmanoeuvre defenders and embark on dangerous runs along the flanks. The Portuguese sensation possesses excellent vision, enabling him to deliver incisive passes in the opponent’s territory, and he wields power and precision when taking long-range shots. While primarily operating on the left wing, he can seamlessly transition to the right wing or even take up a central forward role if instructed by his manager.
Leao’s addition to Jurgen Klopp‘s attacking arsenal at the Anfield Stadium is expected to inject more speed and goal-scoring prowess. He could even serve as a viable replacement for Mohamed Salah should the Egyptian’s future at Liverpool become uncertain.
At 24 years old, Rafael Leao’s future appears promising, contingent on his continued development with each passing season. Consequently, Klopp should consider revising his approach and contemplate a significant investment in the Portuguese talent during the summer transfer window next year. Nonetheless, the ultimate decision regarding a move to the Premier League rests in Leao’s hands, and time will reveal the path he chooses.