La Liga leaders Barcelona are reportedly trying to capitalize on Rafael Leao’s strained relationship with supervisor Paulo Fonseca to prize him away from AC Milan. Leao, who is among the most sought-after forwards in Italy, has fallen out of favor beneath Fonseca and is rising more and more annoyed along with his scenario.
Rafael Leao Going Via Tough Section at AC Milan
Leao, who joined Milan from LOSC Lille in August 2019, has had a tough begin to the 2024-25 season beneath supervisor Fonseca. The Portugal worldwide took half within the first seven Serie A video games for the Rossonerri, chipping in with a purpose and 4 assists. Regardless of his first rate return, Leao didn’t make the beginning XI for the 1-0 victory over Udinese Calcio on October 19. The coach additionally handed on the chance to carry him off the bench.
Fonseca didn’t begin Leao in opposition to league leaders Napoli on Tuesday (October 29), solely bringing him on after the hour mark. Napoli delivered a advantageous efficiency at San Siro, coming away with a 2-0 victory. After the match, Fonseca addressed Leao’s absence from the beginning XI, saying (through Soccer-Italia):
“I don’t wish to go into tiny particulars, I deal with issues otherwise with every participant.
“There isn’t a battle between us, it’s only a coach’s determination. We attempt to encourage the gamers in several methods, but it surely’s as much as the gamers to place in the correct quantity of dedication, I don’t should beg them.”
Barcelona Carefully Monitoring Rafael Leao’s State of affairs
Based on Spanish outlet SPORT, Barcelona is attentive to Leao’s scenario at Milan, with President Joan Laporta displaying probably the most curiosity. The Blaugrana contemplated making an attempt to signal Leao in the summertime switch window after the Nico Williams deal fell by means of.
The 25-year-old was additionally reportedly open to the thought of transferring to Catalonia, however Milan declared him nontransferable when Barca approached the membership by means of agent Jorge Mendes. Moreover, with Barcelona combating funds, they didn’t have the means to check the Italians’ resolve.
Coach Hansi Flick and Sporting Director Deco see Leao as an distinctive expertise on the left wing and have saved him excessive on their shortlist for subsequent summer season. Nonetheless, with Leao’s contract not expiring till June 2028, Milan is unlikely to promote him for affordable. Regardless of being in a significantly better monetary place, they nonetheless could not be capable of afford to pay a blockbuster price for Leao.