Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal’s summer transfer window may have taken a fresh twist with renewed links to AC Milan star Rafael Leão, who has already publicly expressed his desire to play in the Premier League.
The 25-year-old Portuguese winger has emerged as a target for the Gunners as they prepare to strengthen their squad for next season’s Champions League campaign. Leão’s future at the San Siro is under increasing scrutiny following AC Milan’s failure to qualify for any European competition. The Rossoneri finished eighth in Serie A with 63 points, a disappointment that has sparked speculation around the futures of several key players.
Leão was left on the bench as an unused substitute in Milan’s recent 2–0 victory over Monza — the final game under manager Sérgio Conceição before he was sacked. While incoming head coach Massimiliano Allegri reportedly views Leão as a central figure in his plans for the rebuild, the club is said to be open to a departure if a “truly unmissable offer” arrives.
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According toFoot Mercato, Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta has already spoken directly to Rafael Leão over a potential move earlier this month. The Gunners have placed him on their shortlist of targets, although a new striker remains the club’s top priority at this stage of the transfer window. Still, the report notes that Leão is of “definite interest” to Arsenal and is being considered as part of their broader summer strategy.
Rafael Leão
Rafael Leão (Image credit: Getty Images)
Leão himself has not been shy about his admiration for English football. Speaking to Gaffer magazine in 2023, the winger said: “Premier League. I think every player wants to play in the Premier League because it’s a very competitive league. It has engaging football, great teams and a worldwide audience… I would definitely have to say the Premier League in the future.”
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With 12 goals and 13 assists across all competitions this season, Leão remains one of Milan’s standout performers. However, his ambitions may now exceed what the Rossoneri can offer — particularly his stated desire to win the Champions League and a Ballon d’Or, two goals that feel increasingly distant without European football.
Arsenal, having secured a second-place finish in the Premier League, are in a strong position to offer Leão a return to the Champions League stage next season — along with a clear role in one of Europe’s most exciting projects under Mikel Arteta.
While Arsenal continue to weigh up their attacking options, the lure of Champions League football and the Premier League spotlight may prove decisive if Rafael Leão is serious about taking the next step in his career.
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