Galatasaray chase €45m Leao move as Turkish rivals watch

Galatasaray are on the verge of securing Portugal winger Rafael Leao from AC Milan in a deal reported to be worth about €45 million. The Turkish champions have reportedly made a direct proposal to the player, becoming the only club with a formal approach as the summer window draws to a close.

Galatasaray's ambition

The club view the winger as one of the biggest signings of the summer, a statement of intent from the Turkish champions. Adding a player of Leao’s calibre is expected to strengthen their attacking options and raise their profile ahead of a Champions League campaign.

Competing offers and Milan's calculus

According to, Aston Villa have also entered the race, with Milan prepared to reopen talks if a suitable figure emerges. Milan’s director Gerry Cardinale has held firm on a €60 million valuation, though the Rossoneri would consider returning to the table for an offer of €50 million. Villa’s recent activity includes Ollie Watkins reportedly heading for Al Hilal.

Milan’s willingness to sell is partly tactical; Leao’s orthodox left‑wing role does not fit Ruben Amorim’s 3‑4‑2‑1 system, which favours support strikers as trequartisti. The seven‑year servant has logged 291 appearances, scoring 80 goals and providing 65 assists, while currently nursing a thigh problem that kept him out of the opening weekend.

To date no formal bid has reached Milan, and Galatasaray remain the sole side to have approached the player directly. The Turkish side’s early move could give them an advantage as the transfer window enters its final days.

If the €45 million transfer materialises, Galatasaray will add a proven goal‑scorer ahead of their Champions League campaign, while Milan stand to recoup a significant sum and free up wages for a player who no longer fits their tactical plans.