Galatasaray raise Rafael Leao bid as Aston Villa remain in race for Milan forward

Galatasaray have increased their offer for Milan forward Rafael Leao as they attempt to complete a deal during the current summer transfer window.

According to Football Italia, the Turkish club have proposed €45m for the Portugal international, with additional performance-related incentives included in the package.

The structure of those add-ons is designed to narrow the gap between Galatasaray’s offer and Milan’s valuation of the player. The Italian club are seeking €50m for Leao, while the incentives in the latest proposal are understood to be relatively achievable.

Personal terms are not expected to prevent the move. Leao has reportedly reached an agreement with Galatasaray on a four-year contract worth €12m per season.

Aston Villa remain involved in the race for the 26-year-old, although Tottenham are currently considered to be behind the two leading contenders. Villa have the financial capacity to make a significant offer after a series of sales this summer.

Ezri Konsa has joined Arsenal, Youri Tielemans has moved to Manchester United and Morgan Rogers has transferred to Chelsea. Ollie Watkins is also close to completing a move to Al-Hilal.

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery wants to add at least two players to his attacking options. The club are also considering alternatives to Leao, including Crystal Palace forward Jean-Philippe Mateta and Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson.

Leao has rejected a move to the Saudi Pro League, instead favouring a transfer to Galatasaray or remaining in Italy.

The forward has returned to full team training with Milan ahead of their Serie A meeting with Venezia on Friday. He missed the opening round because of a thigh-muscle problem and was not included in Milan’s squad for Sunday’s first league match against Torino.

Milan began their campaign with a 2-1 victory over Torino. Their next match against Venezia will be played at San Siro on Friday.

Leao made 31 appearances in all competitions for Milan last season, scoring 10 goals and providing three assists. His contract with the club runs until June 2028.

Milan finished fifth in Serie A last season with 70 points.