Milan calls for a substantial 130 million euros for the sought-after Bayern Munich players.
FC Bayern eyeing potential transfer of Rafael Leao, but astronomical fee poses a challenge
Munich, Germany — FC Bayern is reportedly considering Portuguese winger Rafael Leao as a potential transfer target this summer, but the German club faces steep competition and a hefty price tag from AC Milan, according to sources close to the matter.
Leao, 23, has been linked with a move away from the Italian giants, with several European clubs interested in his services. However, the Rossoneri are rumored to be demanding a steep transfer fee of around €130 million (£109 million), a sum that FC Bayern is unlikely to meet.
AC Milan has been seeking to regenerate its squad, with several players named as potential targets for departures. Leao is one of them, despite his solid performance this season in which he scored eight goals and provided eight assists in 34 appearances in Serie A.
Bayern is reportedly looking to bolster its left wing, with several names linked with a move to the German powerhouse, including Kaoru Mitoma from Brighton and Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace. Leao, however, could drop out of Bayern's plans due to Milan's exorbitant asking price.
In addition to Bayern and Arsenal, Saudi Arabian clubs such as Al-Ittihad, Al-Hilal, and Al-Nassr are believed to be ready to offer Leao lucrative salary packages exceeding what any European club can match. The lure of astronomical salaries may persuade Leao to opt for a move to the Middle East instead of joining Bayern.
Bayern's sporting director, Hasan Salihamidžić, is said to maintain a good relationship with Leao's agent, Jorge Mendes, which could potentially facilitate negotiations. However, convinced that Leao's market value is closer to €80 million rather than Milan's asking price, FC Bayern may look elsewhere for wing reinforcements if the deal is not feasible.
In conclusion, while the move to FC Bayern appears attractive for Rafael Leao, the substantial transfer fee demanded by AC Milan and the lucrative offers from Saudi Arabian clubs make the transaction challenging. Bayern's reluctance to pay this fee could push the decision-makers to look for alternative options to strengthen their squad on the wing.
Despite reports suggesting FC Bayern's interest in Rafael Leao, European clubs like Bayern face a significant hurdle in securing the Portuguese winger, with AC Milan demanding a fee of around €130 million. Bayern's potential rivals for Leao's signature include Saudi Arabian clubs offering lucrative salary packages, which could prove enticing and alter Leao's decision, potentially diverting him away from a move to Bayern and European-leagues like Serie-A.
