Portugal forward's transfer request could spark Liverpool deal | OneFootball

Liverpool have been tipped to shake up their attacking options this summer.

Mohamed Salah will leave once his contract expires at the end of June and Federico Chiesa is likely to join the Egyptian King. Those departures will open up a sizeable gap in the outgoing Premier League champions’ frontline.

And given the struggles of Cody Gakpo on the other side it would be no surprise to see a left-sided option added either.

Don’t forget the problems up top. Hugo Ekitike is expected to be sidelined for up to a year following an achilles injury. That leaves Alexander Isak as the only fit senior option at centre forward - a risk considering the Swede’s ongoing availability issues.

Liverpool need Rafa Leao

One solution could be to add Rafael Leao. The Portugal forward, 26, dropped a bomb on Saturday when he announced his intention to leave AC Milan.

The Serie A giants have endured a torrid season - missing out on Champions League football - and are now being plagued by administrative instability.

Amid the chaos Leao wants to leave - with Milan standing little chance of tying him down to a new contract. According to a report in Fichajes Liverpool are set to contest the signing of Leao with Manchester United and Chelsea.

Versatile Leao is the answer

“In England, three clubs are closely monitoring his situation,” the report reads.

“Manchester United, Chelsea, and Liverpool appear to be strong contenders to sign him.

“Mohamed Salah's departure has left a huge symbolic and competitive void at Anfield. That's why Rafael Leao would be a commanding signing. His arrival would revitalize the attack and reignite the enthusiasm of the Liverpool fans.”

Leao is under contract until 2028 and previous reports have suggested that he would be available for around £43m. That is a very reasonable sum for an attacker who - on his day - is among the best in the world.

It’s been an indifferent campaign for Leao - who scored nine Serie A goals - but his versatility could make him an attractive prospect for Richard Hughes.

Most effective from the left wing Leao has also featured in a front two under Max Allegri - meaning he could provide cover if needed for the new Liverpool head coach up top.