Rafael Leao could well be on his way to the Saudi Pro League in the summer transfer window. Al-Hilal are reportedly studying and evaluating the possibility of signing the 24-year-old. Starting from the 2023 summer transfer window, Saudi Arabia has engaged in a shopping spree, attracting some of the best talents from Europe. If the Leao deal does go through, then it would be a huge statement signing from the Middle East.
📰 @NicoSchira: AlHilal interested in #Leao and €175m doesn’t scare the Saudi club. pic.twitter.com/5lazdMq00T
— Milan Posts (@MilanPosts) May 23, 2024
The Portuguese international is renowned in the soccer world for his blistering pace and his ability to beat defenders easily. Playing primarily as a left winger, his flashy skills and dribbling abilities have helped him play an integral role for both club and country. Leao has developed his game tremendously in recent seasons, becoming more clinical than ever in front of goal.
According to reports in Italy, for the deal to actually materialize, Rafael Leao’s release clause of around $190 million will have to be activated. Al-Hilal are rumored to have no trouble in doing so thanks to the backing from the country’s sporting project. The Saudi club will reportedly have a meeting with the player’s representatives in the coming days to convince them of the move. Further developments in the situation will inevitably hold a major say in the future of soccer in Saudi Arabia.
Rafael Leao had a disappointing season with AC Milan
AC Milan endured a difficult season domestically as well as in Europe. The seven-time European champions could only manage a second-place finish in Serie A, 19 points behind their city rivals, Inter Milan. A big reason for Milan’s struggles was due to their Portuguese superstar failing to play up to his true potential. Milan is highly dependent on the 24-year-old for carrying their forward line, which Leao unfortunately could not do do this campaign.
⚡️ RAFAEL LEÃO… 🇵🇹🤩 pic.twitter.com/c83IRUqz7y
— EuroFoot (@eurofootcom) February 26, 2024
Rafael Leao managed just eight goals to go along with nine assists in the Serie A 2023/24 season. His return in the Champions League was even more disappointing with just a solitary goal during the group stages. Apart from the ordinary statistics, his lack of inspiring moments on the pitch has been the major cause of concern and disappointment for the Milan faithful.
Al Hilal can definitely work with Leao in Neymar’s absence
Saudi giants, Al Hilal enjoyed a wonderful campaign during the 2023/24 season. Attracting viewership from all over the globe, the Saudi Pro League saw Al Hilal crowned the league champions. The club was undoubtedly the most consistent side in the competition and occupied the top spot for the majority of the season, enjoying a comfortable lead throughout.
🚨🇧🇷 Al Hilal announce Neymar tore his ACL and his meniscus in Brazil’s World Cup qualifier against Uruguay.
Wishing speedy recovery ❤️🩹 pic.twitter.com/qZnG5WOyVG
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 18, 2023
As a part of their ambitious project, Al Hilal welcomed Neymar Jr. in the 2023 transfer window. Unfortunately, the Brazilian icon witnessed his injury woes continue to haunt him even in Saudi Arabia. Despite his absence, the club cruised to the league crown, leading many to argue whether Neymar does warrant a place at Al Hilal in the future.
Potentially replacing the former Barcelona man with a young talent such as Rafael Leao, is definitely within the club’s reach. Leao’s arrival as an alternate solution to Neymar’s regular absence will surely go well with those associated with the club.