Portuguese forward Rafael Leao is considering a move to the Premier League despite a lucrative offer from Galatasaray. Aston Villa are preparing to pay a transfer fee of around €50 million to AC Milan and offer the player Champions League football.
Galatasaray had recently tabled a net salary offer of €12 million per year to the 27-year-old. The Turkish Süper Lig champions were seen as the frontrunner in Turkey, where the transfer window closes on 4 September. However, with the English window shutting on 1 September, Villa are under pressure to act fast. Leao missed the start of the new Serie A season with a thigh injury and is currently listed on our injuries page.
Rafael Leao publicly announced his intention to leave AC Milan in an interview at the end of May. "I am proud to have been able to make history at Milan, but I want to open a new chapter in my career," he said. This statement clarified the situation for a player under contract until 2028. It is reported that Milan's new coach, Ruben Amorim, does not plan with Leao in his squad. This is a clear signal for the player who joined from Lille for just under €50 million in 2019 and has scored 80 goals in 291 appearances.
Aston Villa's proposal is notable not only for its financial terms but also for its sporting project. Villa will compete in the Champions League next season and offer the competitive environment of the Premier League. This is a significant draw for Leao, who is seeking a new challenge. Milan are reportedly in negotiations with both Galatasaray and Aston Villa. Villa's suggested €50 million fee is close to the sum Milan are expected to ask for. In the Süper Lig, rival club Fenerbahce is also said to be interested in the player.
Galatasaray are waging this transfer battle from a position of strength at the top of the league. With a recent form of WWD (Win, Win, Draw), the yellow-reds have scored 9 goals and conceded 4 for a +5 goal difference. Their next fixture is at home against 5th-placed Rizespor on 6 December 2026, with the full schedule available on our fixtures page. This successful backdrop enhances the club's appeal for star signings.
With the transfer windows closing imminently, Rafael Leao's future remains uncertain. Milan want to reach an agreement with the club making the highest offer. Galatasaray's financial power and dominant position in Turkey competes with Aston Villa's status in European football. Leao's injury status is also a factor to consider in any transfer. As the process moves quickly, fans can check the current list on our squad page. Whatever the outcome, the Portuguese star's decision will remain one of the most talked-about transfer sagas of this summer.
