Manchester City transfer target Rafael Leao has said he wants to stay at AC Milan, after lighting up the Champions League last night.
The attacker, 23, played a huge part in Milan getting past Napoli to reach the semi-final of the competition.
Leao produced a moment of magic in the first-half, carrying the ball from his won half all the way into the Napoli box before squaring for Olivier Giroud for a simple tap-in.
It was an incredible run from the Portugal international, and it gave Milan a 2-0 aggregate lead.
Napoli would score on the night through Victor Osimhen. But it came in injury-time, and they ultimately gave themselves too much to do.
Leao has been coming in for a lot of praise since the end of the game.
He’s one of the very best players in Italy, and his stock his risen higher following his magnificent assist.
Leao is a player who is thought to be on City’s radar heading into the summer.
The Daily Mail reported earlier this year that he was being ‘closely monitored’. There was also claims that City were interested around the time of the World Cup.
But it looks as though City might have their work cut out to sign him. Speaking after last night’s game, Leao said (quoted by Daily Mail): “I want to stay here at Milan, yes – but there are some things to resolve.
“I’m still under contract for one more year, we’re in talks.
“I feel at home at AC Milan. I’m so, so happy to be here.
“What matters most now is that we’re in the semi-finals, it’s a great season and I want to continue helping the team.”
Man City appear to be up against it to sign Rafael Leao as AC Milan star says he wants to stay
So Leao has said publicly that he would like to stay with the Rossoneri.
Clearly he feels good there, and doesn’t appear to be agitating for a move despite interest from many other clubs.
It is a shame as he would be a brilliant signing for City.
Bernardo Silva could be leaving this summer and that would create a need for another winger. Especially as Phil Foden could move into the middle more often.
Riyad Mahrez is not getting any younger, so someone like Leao coming in would be nice.
Hopefully, these talks will fall through and City can potentially pounce.
