Rafael Leao spurns Premier League for Galatasaray move

27‑year‑old winger Rafael Leao confirmed on Saturday in Istanbul that he has completed a £38.5 million transfer from AC Milan to Galatasaray, turning down a reported move to Premier League side Aston Villa when he was unveiled as the Turkish club’s new signing.

Galatasaray had been pushing the deal since June, with president Dursun Ozbek and vice‑president Niyazi Yelkencioglu overseeing negotiations. Leao thanked the club officials and his agent Jorge Mendes for finalising the transfer. The announcement, reported by Getty and Across, noted his seven‑season spell at Milan.

Leao’s record at AC Milan

During seven seasons with AC Milan, Leao amassed 80 goals and 65 assists in 291 appearances across all competitions. He also collected the 2021/22 Serie A title and the 2024/25 Supercoppa Italiana.

Galatasaray chase €45m Leao move as Turkish rivals watch

Leao confirmed he turned down a move to Aston Villa, a Premier League side that had been in talks with Milan earlier in the week. Villa, meanwhile, have secured an agreement with Paris Saint‑Germain for winger Ibrahim Mbaye in a £47 million deal and continue to hunt for alternatives on the flank.

The 27‑year‑old’s arrival in Istanbul on Saturday was met by a sea of Galatasaray supporters, underscoring the Turkish club’s ambition to strengthen its attack. He described the transfer as a good opportunity and pledged to give his best for the club.

Leao’s decision highlights Galatasaray’s willingness to invest heavily, while Aston Villa must redirect its recruitment strategy after missing the Portuguese winger. Both parties now look ahead to new challenges in their respective leagues.