Serie A giants open exit door for Barcelona target for €50 million | OneFootball

Barcelona have received a timely lift in their search for a new left winger, with fresh reports suggesting that Rafael Leao could be available this summer.

According to SPORT, AC Milan are now open to listening to offers for the Portuguese forward, marking a significant shift in stance. 

For Barcelona, who are actively exploring attacking reinforcements amid uncertainty surrounding Marcus Rashford, this development could open a realistic path to securing a high-profile signing.

What’s the story?

As per the outlet, Leao’s situation in Milan has evolved rapidly. 

Once considered untouchable, the winger has seen his role diminish, partly due to a strained relationship with manager Massimiliano Allegri. 

He has gone from being a guaranteed starter to a more rotational figure, and the club is now reportedly willing to move him on in order to reduce their wage bill.

Barcelona have been tracking Leao for some time, as Joan Laporta has long admired the player, and super-agent Jorge Mendes was previously involved in exploring a potential deal. 

Rafael Leao prefers a move to Barcelona. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)

While financial constraints blocked a move in the past, the current situation presents a more favourable opportunity, especially with Milan’s valuation believed to be around €50 million or potentially lower.

Leao wants Barcelona

Interestingly, Leao himself has added fuel to the speculation. 

The Portuguese star recently shared an image of Ronaldinho in a Clasico against Real Madrid, captioning it “the best”. 

It is said that Leao is now ready for a new challenge and despite receiving lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia, the winger is prioritising a move within Europe. 

The Premier League remains a strong possibility, with several clubs monitoring his situation, while Bayern Munich have also shown interest. However, Barcelona remain in the conversation. 

For now, the club is aware of both the player’s desire and Milan’s willingness to negotiate, which positions them as a serious contender if they can structure a financially viable deal.