Leao Rises on Arsenal’s Radar
Arsenal’s summer business is beginning to take shape, and the early signals suggest a bold approach. With Martin Zubimendi expected to arrive from Real Sociedad for €60 million, attention has turned swiftly to the wings. According to Calciomercato, Rafael Leao is now one of the most sought-after names on the club’s shortlist.
“Arsenal’s new sporting director, Andrea Berta, has put Leao ‘in the top positions’ of his list of left-wing targets.” The report signals intent — not just to challenge again, but to elevate the team’s firepower in wide areas.
Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard have shared responsibilities on the left, while Raheem Sterling’s brief loan from Chelsea will not be extended. With Bukayo Saka locked into the right-wing role, the other flank remains open to a marquee upgrade.
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Milan’s Position and Leao’s Future
Rafael Leao remains under contract at AC Milan until 2028, but Calciomercato adds that “if someone comes in with a ‘shock offer’ – which would be in the region of €100m or £85m – then Milan would have to take it into consideration.” The Portuguese forward has registered 25 goal contributions from 48 appearances this season, furthering his reputation as a big-game player and one of Serie A’s most dynamic attackers.
The 24-year-old has amassed 86 career goals across spells with Sporting, Lille, and Milan, but his focus remains on his current club — for now. He is preparing for Milan’s Coppa Italia final against Bologna and is keen to add a third trophy to his collection.
Still, Arsenal are not alone in this pursuit. Chelsea are monitoring Leao’s situation closely, with Bayern Munich’s Leroy Sané also linked to the Gunners as a potential alternative. If the Leao deal proves elusive, the Saka-style dual threat on either wing may yet arrive from Germany.
Berta Begins to Shape the Arteta Project
Appointing Andrea Berta from Atlético Madrid represents a significant step in Arsenal’s evolving recruitment strategy. Identifying Leao as a top target reflects Berta’s preference for direct, explosive attackers who can change the tempo of a game in an instant.
Photo: IMAGO
Arsenal’s attack has underwhelmed statistically this season. As the Calciomercato report notes, “none of their players have reached double figures of goals in the Premier League.” The numbers are telling — and while Mikel Arteta’s side have played attractive, controlled football, they’ve lacked ruthless finishers beyond Saka.
Our View – EPL Index Analysis
For Arsenal, the potential pursuit of Rafael Leao is both ambitious and necessary. The Gunners have progressed under Arteta, but recent frustrations in the league and Europe show they still need extra cutting edge. Leao is exactly the kind of player who could raise the ceiling.
He brings goals, assists, physicality, and a certain swagger — all traits that Arsenal’s attack can sometimes lack when Saka isn’t firing. His ability to take defenders on, beat them, and finish with composure would add a new dimension to the left-hand side. And crucially, at just 24, he fits the club’s long-term vision.
Yes, €100m is a hefty fee, but Arsenal’s intent to compete at the highest level demands signings of this calibre. Whether or not the deal is realistic, the club’s reported interest signals a welcome shift: a desire not just to keep up, but to lead.
Should Berta pull this off early in his tenure, it could set the tone for a transformative summer — one where Arsenal stop being nearly-men and start collecting silverware.