Manchester City are currently continuing their chase for history this season. Up next for the champions is today’s clash with Liverpool as they bid to become the first team to win four consecutive Premier League titles. Despite this, they continue to be linked with players ahead of the summer transfer window. AC Milan star Rafael Leao has now been linked with a potential move to Manchester City. With the winger the latest player to be linked to City is a move possible for the Milan star?
Manchester City linked with a big-money move for Rafael Leao
Fichajes reports that the world champions are prepared to pay €150 million to land the AC Milan star this summer. Furthermore, they also report that what Manchester City are prepared to pay is the fee demanded for Rafael Leao from his club AC Milan.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has also reported via his exclusive Substack column that at this stage it is all quiet in regards to a possible bid from City for Rafael Leao. Furthermore, Romano adds that the situation could change as City’s transfer plans become clearer closer to the summer transfer window.
Would Rafael Leao fit into Pep Guardiola’s squad?
On paper, it would appear that Rafael Leao could fit into the world champions squad. While he hasn’t been at his best this season for AC Milan the Portuguese international is a match-winner on his day. During his time at AC Milan, he has scored 52 goals and contributed 46 assists in 197 appearances for the Serie A giants.
The AC Milan star operates primarily on the left wing for his team. With his direct playing style, his ability to beat a man with his dribbling ability is a standout feature of his game. His ability to cut inside from the left-hand side has made him one of AC Milan’s biggest attacking weapons during his spell at the club.
Given his age and obvious weapons in his game on paper at least it would appear that Rafael Leao could find a role in the Manchester City squad.
Manchester City are well stocked for options on the left-wing
The European champions are well stocked for options on the left-hand side. Jack Grealish and Jeremy Doku tend to do their best work on the left. With Oscar Bobb also having the ability to play wide on the left City do have several options already available on the left wing.
Another factor is the potential summer arrival of Girona star Savio. Fabrizio Romano has also previously reported that City have agreed on a deal with Troyes to sign the Brazilian this summer. With another winger already reportedly signed City may feel they have sufficient options in wide positions already.
🚨🔵🇧🇷 EXCL: Manchester City have signed all documents to sign Sávio from July 1. First deal for season 24/25, now completed.
Deal completed with City Football Group side Troyes as Sávio will join for pre season under Pep Guardiola.
Exclusive story, confirmed. pic.twitter.com/ZVcm7W8ifH
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 20, 2024
A player may have to make way for any potential move for the AC Milan star
If Manchester City were to make a big-money move for Rafael Leao it would appear that a player would have to make way to cater for the Portuguese international’s arrival. As it stands no reports are linking any of City’s wingers with a potential summer exit.
Rafael Leao to Manchester City could potentially become a story to watch for this summer. As it stands currently there doesn’t appear place in City’s squad for the talented winger. But if someone were to depart in the summer it could be a move City visit to add to their squad.