Fabrizio Romano has suggested that AC Milan are in a dangerous situation with respect to rumoured Spurs target Rafael Leao, explaining that the Serie A giants would not want to risk losing the player for free.
Leao’s stock has been steadily growing over the last couple of years and the versatile forward has made a bright start to the season, with four goals and seven assists to his name so far in all competitions (Transfermarkt).
The Portuguese international’s future appears uncertain at the moment, with his current contract at the San Siro running until 2024.
Fabio Cordella, who has served as the sporting director for the likes of Budapest Honved FC and Royale Union Saint-Gilloise in the past, revealed earlier this month Leao is stalling on signing a new contract with the Rossoneri (Calciomercato.it).
He added that Tottenham were one of the clubs to have offered the 23-year-old a contract.
Romano has explained that Milan face a tricky situation with Leao as they are hopeful the winger will extend his deal but, at the same time, would not want to lose him for free.
The journalist said on the Que Golazo podcast: “It’s not an easy negotiation because Rafael Leao is something special. He was the best player in Serie A last season and I have a feeling it’ll happen the same this season because he’s doing great.
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“We have to respect Milan’s position because at the same time Paolo Maldini once again said we are negotiating with Rafael Leao and want to extend his contract.
“The current deal expires in June 2024, so it’s kind of a dangerous situation because Milan can’t wait too long before trying to reach an agreement with Rafa.
“Milan have already lost many players on a free, [Gianluigi] Donnarumma, Franck Kessie, [Hakan] Calhanoglu. Many players have left on a free, so they have to be careful with this situation.
“But at the same time, they are convinced the player knows that maybe one more season with Milan could be the best way for him to go to a top, top level.
“So, negotiations are ongoing but it’s not close to being agreed or completed – still at the early stages of negotiations. Let’s see what happens because it’s still open.”
Spurs Web Opinion
Leao would be a very good fit for Conte’s system as he can play on the left as part of a front three and can also be used as a forward in a 3-5-2. However, if the 23-year-old refuses to sign a contract, one would expect Spurs to face plenty of competition for the player’s signature from big clubs around Europe.
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