In the last few years, Rafael Leao has established himself as one of the best wingers in not only Serie A but all over the world. Over the past two campaigns, Leao has produced a phenomenal return in Italy’s top flight, contributing 26 goals and 20 assists from just 69 appearances. Due to his charismatic figure on and off the field, the electrifying winger has been on the radar of many Saudi clubs and has been at the top of their priority lists.
However, the Portuguese international has not shied away from the fact that he ‘wants to win big things’ and suggested he is fully focused on Milan for ‘the next two to three years’. Talking to GQ Portugal via MilanNews Leao said, “Saudi League proposals? For me, the Champions League is worth more than $11m salary.”
Rafa Leão: “Saudi League proposals? For me, Champions League is worth more than €10m salary”. 🔴⚫️🇵🇹
“I still haven’t achieved great results to accept go to that league”, told GQ.
“I’m focused on doing great things with AC Milan. That’s why I signed new deal few months ago”. pic.twitter.com/CINCxosALp
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 25, 2023
The 24-year-old winger has hinted that he would have no interest in entertaining a transfer to the Middle East at this stage of his career, although, in the past Cristiano Ronaldo has persuaded him to explore this offer. Further, he wants to play on the biggest stages of European football and remain at the San Siro.
Leao added that he still has not achieved great results to bring an end to his career in Europe and accept an offer to go to the Saudi Pro League. He further said that he is currently focused on achieving greater heights with AC Milan. That was the reason he signed a new deal with them a few months ago.
Rafael Leao: Milan’s golden boy on a golden contract
Despite being linked with Chealsea, due to his contract expiring in 2024, Leao chose to stay with the Rossoneri and signed a new contract. In June, the Portugal forward signed a new deal extending until 2028. Italian media report that Leao will earn a basic net salary of $5.4 million with a series of bonuses in place which could make his actual earnings significantly higher.
Rafael Leão
• 2nd most dribbles in Europe
• 3rd most successful attacking actions
• 4 G/A in 5 league gamesBALLER.
Via @DataMB_ pic.twitter.com/xBpbmbjMpX
— Best of Rafael Leão (@BestofLeao) September 24, 2023
Milan have also reportedly inserted a release clause of $185 million which can only be exercised during a summer transfer window. The Portuguese forward has netted 41 goals in 135 games for AC Milan.
In recent years, the 24-year-old Leao has established himself as one of the top players in Serie A, his performances helping Milan to win the Scudetto in 2021-22, nearly after a decade. In his 5 outings this year, he has scored thrice and assisted once for AC Milan. He also played a pivotal role in AC Milan’s journey to the semi-final of Champions League 2022-23.