Official: Leão leaves Milan and joins Galatasaray on a permanent basis | OneFootball

Rafael Leão officially at Galatasaray. (@GalatasaraySK)

Rafael Leão is starting a new experience in Turkey after years with the Rossoneri.

For 7 years, Leão was one of the most important players in the squad of Milan. However, something broke between the sides in the last couple of years, presumably since the exit of Paolo Maldini, and the countdown to Rafael’s exit started the minute the 2025/26 season finished.

Rafa made it clear that he considers his story at Milan finished, while Rúben Amorim and Gerry Cardinale also wanted to move on from the Portuguese and had been waiting for offers.

Aston Villa and Galatasaray were the only two serious teams knocking on the door for the 27-year-old winger, who was once considered one of the strongest in Europe. In the end, Turkey convinced Leão

“Milan announces the permanent transfer of Rafael Alexandre da Conceição Leão to Galatasaray Spor Kulübü,” a statement reads. “The Club thanks Rafa for the professionalism and passion shown in the Rossoneri shirt over these seven seasons together, during which he contributed to winning the Scudetto in the 2021/22 season and the 2024 Italian Supercup. To Rafa, best wishes, both personally and professionally, in this new chapter of his career.”

Gala confirmed the agreement is for €38m + 20% of a future resale.