Liverpool are working hard to get a deal over the line for Florian Wirtz to join from Bayer Leverkusen.
The Reds are all set for a busy window, with the arrival of Wirtz for a record-breaking fee likely to be the cherry on top.
But while what will become the biggest signing in Liverpool history is taking the headlines at the moment, it is unlikely to be the last act of the Reds’ summer spending.
Milos Kerkez is being targeted as well, while there are potential exits which could leave the Liverpool squad in need of reinforcement in other areas.
With rumours continuing that Luis Diaz is primed to leave Liverpool, Arne Slot and Richard Hughes may yet need to make an addition on the left wing.
As one of the most outstanding left sided forwards in Europe, Rafael Leao would feel like a natural player for Liverpool to target. And after hearing rumours of an Anfield switch for Leao, journalist Fabrizio Romano has shared what he’s hearing.
Photo by Elianton/Mondadori Portfolio via Getty Images
Photo by Elianton/Mondadori Portfolio via Getty Images
No talks between Liverpool and Rafael Leao
Since arriving at Milan in 2019, Leao has developed into a real star at San Siro. Named Serie A MVP during Milan’s title-winning season in 2021/22, the Portuguese is a key player.
However, things have not been going well for the Rossoneri of late. After a disastrous 2024/25 campaign they will find themselves out of European competition next season.
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Despite their eighth place finish, Leao still had a decent campaign, scoring 11 goals and providing 12 assists in all competitions. His good form has led to rumours of a move away, but according to Romano, it is unlikely that the 25-year-old will join Liverpool.
“I have received many questions in recent days on Rafael Leao, about Liverpool,” the transfer expert has said on his YouTube channel.
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“From what I’m told, at the moment there is no concrete conversation or negotiation with Liverpool, between Liverpool and Milan or the agent of Rafael Leao. This situation is completely quiet.”
“It could be one to watch with Bayern because they will sign an important winger this summer, could be two,” Romano added.
“Milan will not accept a small transfer fee, it won’t be 40 or 50 million Euros. At the moment they have not received anything concrete.”
Romano expands on Federico Chiesa decision
On Saturday, Romano revealed that Federico Chiesa is looking to leave Liverpool this summer. Expanding on that later in the day, he confirmed that the 27-year-old wants more playing time ahead of the World Cup.
Season Appearances Goals Assists
2019/20 33 6 2
2020/21 40 7 6
2021/22 42 14 10
2022/23 48 16 11
2023/24 48 15 12
2024/25 51 12 11
Rafael Leao at AC Milan
“What I can tell you is that Federico Chiesa loves Liverpool. He has a great relationship with his teammates, with the coach and the fans, who love him. There is a great feeling, a great vibe between Chiesa and Liverpool,” Romano explains.
“But he wants to play regular football. Why, because there is the World Cup in one year and he hopes to be there, so he wants to play more. He doesn’t want to spend another season 90 per cent on the bench.
“So, my understanding is there is a concrete possibility for Chiesa to leave Liverpool in the summer, he is assessing all his options and from what I’m told especially options in Italy. He could be one to watch very soon. “
With Diaz potentially leaving and Chiesa too, there will be a need for Liverpool to bring in another wide player. Perhaps then those links with Leao could become a little more concrete.