Rafael Leao close to Galatasaray move from AC Milan, Turkish report claims

Rafael Leao is reportedly one step away from leaving AC Milan for Galatasaray during the current summer transfer window, according to Turkish newspaper Sabah.

The report says Galatasaray are close to completing a deal for the Portugal winger, with the proposed transfer potentially worth up to 45m euros, including bonuses.

The summer transfer window is due to close on 4 September, giving the Turkish club time to finalise an agreement for Leao. It is not stated whether the deal has been completed or whether the clubs have reached a final agreement.

Galatasaray have already added Russian player Aleksey Batrakov and French midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu during the summer window. The signing of Leao would represent another major addition to their squad ahead of the new season.

Leao has two possible preferences regarding his future, according to the report. The AC Milan winger is said to have rejected a move to the Saudi league, with Galatasaray or remaining in Italy his preferred options.

The 26-year-old is under contract at AC Milan until June 2028. Despite that long-term agreement, his future has become the subject of speculation during the current transfer period, with Galatasaray now reported to be the closest to securing his signature.

Leao made 31 appearances for AC Milan in all competitions last season. He scored 10 goals and provided three assists during that campaign.

However, he was not included in AC Milan’s squad for their opening Serie A match against Torino on Sunday. The Rossoneri began the season with an entertaining 2-1 victory.

AC Milan will play Venezia in the second round of Serie A on Friday at San Siro. The match will come as the club continues its campaign without Leao in its squad, should the reported move to Galatasaray progress.

AC Milan finished fifth in Serie A last season with 70 points. The club’s final position and Leao’s contribution of 10 goals and three assists provide the background to the interest surrounding the Portugal international, whose contract remains in place for another two years beyond the current season.

For now, Sabah’s report describes the proposed transfer as being close, rather than confirmed. Galatasaray are understood to be working towards a deal worth up to 45m euros plus bonuses, while Leao’s reported decision to favour a move to Turkey over a switch to the Saudi league has increased speculation that he could leave AC Milan before the transfer window closes.