Jorge Mendes visited Barcelona a week ago and took the opportunity to meet Deco. Several names were discussed but Madrid-Barcelona is in a position to discover a star who hadn't left until now: Rafael Leão. He was on Barça's agenda last summer. However, it didn't happen due to the little room for negotiations that there was during the month of August.
Everything has changed for Rafael Leão, who was also more reluctant to leave Milan. A little over a year ago he renewed his contract until 2028. Now, however, he wants to leave; he's fed up with the situation. The Portuguese is not getting along with his coach, Fonseca, and he's clear that he must leave to continue growing as a professional. He's interested in the option of Barça, although he knows it's complicated.
On Deco's desk, Mendes laid out the conditions under which Rafael Leão could leave. Firstly, Milan would ask between 80 and 90 million for his sale, a somewhat hard price at present for Barça. Furthermore, the Portuguese striker would also want a salary in line with his current one. In other words, his salary should exceed the 7 million net that he's earning in Italy per season.
It's still too soon and Rafael Leão's situation in Milan could have several solutions: One would be having his current coach fored. However, Deco already knows that he would be delighted to wear the Barça jersey and is playing with this card in favor of Jorge Mendes. His agent also wants him to wear the blue-maroon jersey and would be willing to help bring the operation to a successful conclusion.
Rafael Leão, Star Transfer for Barça
He tried last summer with Nico Williams and may try his luck with Leão next summer. Barça's idea is still to make a big transfer for the forward line and the truth is that the Portuguese is very popular. it's a name that has caught the attention of Deco and has the approval of the president.
However, all things considered, Rafael Leão is not a priority. Barcelona will focus on strengthening defense and midfield next season. They don't expect a big outlay unless a big star emerges. The idea is to make changes with low-cost players.
Rafael Leão is a very popular name but it will be impossible to get him by January. Many things can change between now and next summer. We'll have to wait and see what Barça does.