Rafael Leao puts Milan transfer speculation in the hands of his family and lawyers

Rafael Leao has moved to end speculation about his future by insisting that only his family and lawyers are authorised to handle his affairs, while stressing that his attention is firmly on football with Milan.

The Portugal international posted a statement on Instagram after reports linked him with a move away from the Italian club. Milan value the forward at about €50m, a figure understood to be proving an obstacle for clubs interested in signing him.

Galatasaray have recently made an approach in an effort to persuade Milan to part with the 26-year-old, while Arsenal have also been named as potential suitors. The Sun previously reported that Leao had entered Arsenal’s plans after the Premier League club’s hopes of signing Vinicius Junior faded when the Brazil forward renewed his contract with Real Madrid.

According to journalist Gianluca Di Marzio’s website, Leao wrote on Instagram: “My only thought is the pitch. I am focused on giving my best in every match and every training session.”

He added: “Just to avoid any kind of speculation and inaccurate news, I want to reiterate that for some time I have entrusted the management of all my affairs and interests exclusively to my family and lawyers.”

Leao continued: “No other party has the right to speak on my behalf. My focus is on the goals ahead.”

The message comes as Leao prepares for what will be his seventh season with Milan. His time at the club has included periods of outstanding form alongside spells in which his influence has been more limited.

Leao, who was born in 1999, played a significant role in Milan’s Serie A title success in the 2021-22 season. He contributed 11 goals and 10 assists as the team won the league, securing a major honour that remains central to his record with the club.

His most recent campaign was more difficult. Leao struggled to make the desired impact consistently and faced criticism from Milan supporters. Wearing the number 10 shirt, he finished the season with nine goals and three assists in 29 appearances.

Milan also failed to qualify for the Champions League, adding to the scrutiny surrounding the team and its leading players.

For now, Leao’s public position is that his priority is preparation and performance rather than the transfer reports surrounding him. Any discussions concerning his professional interests, he says, will be handled by the representatives he has formally appointed.