Arsenal are interested in signing AC Milan winger Rafael Leao in a surprise summer deal, according to reports.
The North London side have reportedly held initial talks with the Portuguese international’s representatives as they eye a potential move after the season.
Leao will enter the final two years of his contract with Milan in June, and the Serie A side are believed to be open to sanctioning a sale if they receive a substantial offer.
The 26-year-old forward has been on Arsenal’s radar for several years, and the Gunners appear to have stepped up their pursuit ahead of the upcoming summer window.
Arsenal 'Frontrunners' to Sign Rafael Leao
Rafael Leao
According to journalist Steve Kay, Milan are prepared to sell Leao for a fee in the region of €80m (£70m), with Arsenal seen as frontrunners to land the Portuguese international after the season.
Manchester United are also believed to have registered their interest in Leao, but Arsenal appear ahead in the race after sporting director Andrea Berta reportedly held direct talks with the 26-year-old’s representatives.
Leao, who joined Milan from French side Lille in the summer of 2019, has been a key player for the Serie A club since, scoring 79 goals and providing 64 assists in 280 appearances in all competitions.
Along with former Chelsea forward Christian Pulisic, the ‘superstar’ winger is Milan’s joint top scorer in Serie A this season, with eight goals in 18 appearances.
Arsenal Reward Saka With New Deal
Arsenal's Bukayo Saka arrives at the stadium before facing Leeds
Arsenal have secured the future of their star winger Bukayo Saka after extending the England international’s contract until 2031 this week.
The Gunners have rewarded the forward with fresh terms on a new five-and-a-half-year agreement, with Saka’s previous deal due to expire in June 2027.
Saka was on the scoresheet in Wednesday’s 2-2 draw at Wolves, which saw Arsenal drop more points in the Premier League title race.
Mikel Arteta’s side are leading the standings by five points ahead of the North London derby against Tottenham on Sunday.
Why Arsenal Could be Interested in Leao
Mikel Arteta
Amid Arsenal’s reported interest in Leao, we asked ChatGPT why the Gunners could potentially chase a move for the Portuguese international after the season:
Explosive wide threat – Leao offers pace, power, and one-v-one ability, giving Arsenal a more direct option on the left.
Goal and assist output – His ability to score and create from wide areas would ease the attacking burden on Arsenal’s central players.
Tactical upgrade – Leao’s profile suits a high-tempo, transition-based approach, adding variety to Arsenal’s build-up and counter-attacks.
Mikel Arteta Related
Arsenal Suffer Injury Blow Ahead of Tottenham as Forward Set to Miss North London Derby
He could be set to miss the north London Derby.