In a recent update on El Chiringuito TV, journalist Jose Alvarez Haya claimed that Barcelona are in talks to land AC Milan winger Rafael Leao. It has been stated that the Catalan club are showing interest in recruiting the Portuguese talent this summer.
Leao’s Impressive Form In Italian Football
Leao enjoyed a productive campaign at San Siro as he put in a string of impressive displays for them on the left flank. The Portugal international featured in 47 matches for AC Milan last season, scoring 15 times and picking up 14 assists on all fronts.
The 25-year-old gave a good account of himself in the final third based on his average of 2.1 shots, 1.7 key passes and 2.3 dribbles per game in Serie A football. He was even tidy when distributing the ball in the opposition half after making 80% of his attempted passes in league football (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at the Italian club will run out in the summer of 2028. Hence, it won’t be easy for Barcelona to get a deal done for him on the cheap in this summer transfer window.
What Will Leao Bring To Barcelona?
Leao is a good dribbler with the ball at his feet and can make a few dangerous runs with it on the left flank. He can strike the ball with power and precision from long range and has got the eye to play some decisive passes on the offensive end of the field.
The Portugal international usually chips in by scoring and creating a lot of important goals for his team. He is primarily a left-winger but can also operate as a striker down the middle if needed. However, it remains to be seen whether Leao can maintain his good form in La Liga if Barcelona manage to sign him this summer.
We can expect him to bring more firepower to Hansi Flick’s frontline. He is more than capable of earning a regular starting at the Nou Camp. At 25, Leao has his best years ahead of him which makes him a decent choice for the Catalan club to consider in this transfer period. Therefore, Flick should focus on going all out to snap him up this month.
