Aston Villa in contact with AC Milan for Rafael Leao | OneFootball

Aston Villa have opened talks with AC Milan over a move for Portuguese winger Rafael Leao, according to Gianluca Di Marzio.

The West Midlands club have emerged as serious contenders for the 27-year-old as the transfer window enters its final days.

Leao has expressed his desire for a new challenge away from Serie A, and the Rossoneri are ready to part ways. New manager Ruben Amorim does not see the ‘extraordinary’ winger in his plans.

Villa’s ambitious pursuit follows major squad restructuring and lucrative player sales, leaving the club with significant funds for high-profile signings.

While Leao has not been at his best recently, he is viewed as a marquee addition who could elevate Villa’s attack as they prepare for a Champions League return after winning last season’s Europa League.

Previously linked with Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur, Leao is open to joining Aston Villa given his desire to play Premier League football.

AC Milan initially valued their star forward at around €60 million, but the club’s financial stance has softened with little time left to sanction a sale and a short list of suitors.

Turkish giants Galatasaray and Fenerbahce also pursued Leao, but both fell short. Super agent Jorge Mendes is now involved in talks between Villa and Milan as he seeks to keep his client playing at the top level in Europe.

Villa appear to be frontrunners to sign Leao, with formal discussions set to continue as they work to structure a deal that satisfies AC Milan’s demands.

Unai Emery’s side suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion in their Premier League opener, so their urgency in the transfer market is not surprising.