English Premier League
Rafael Leao tells clubs: ‘No-one else has the right to speak for me’
Rafael Leao has moved to end speculation over his future by insisting that his sole focus is performing for AC Milan and that only his family and lawyers are authorised to speak on his behalf.
The Portugal international issued the message on Instagram as reports continue to link him with a move away from the Italian club. AC Milan value the forward at about €50m, a figure understood to be a major obstacle for clubs interested in signing him this summer.
Galatasaray have recently made an approach in an attempt to persuade AC Milan to part with the winger. Arsenal have also been linked with Leao, with The Sun previously reporting that he had entered the Premier League club’s plans after their hopes of signing Vinicius Junior faded when the Brazil forward renewed his contract with Real Madrid.
According to journalist Gianluca Di Marzio’s website, Leao wrote on Instagram: “My only thought is the pitch. I am focused on giving my very best in every match and every training session.”
He added: “Just to avoid any kind of speculation and false news, I reaffirm that for some time now I have entrusted the management of all my affairs and interests exclusively to my family and lawyers.”
Leao continued: “No other party has the right to speak on my behalf. My focus is on the objectives ahead.”
The 26-year-old is preparing for his seventh season with AC Milan, where his career has included periods of outstanding form as well as spells in which he has struggled to make the same impact.
Leao, who was born in 1999, played a central role in AC Milan’s Serie A title success in the 2021-22 campaign. He helped drive the team to the championship after scoring 11 goals and providing 10 assists.
His most recent season was more difficult. Leao faced criticism from AC Milan supporters after failing to influence matches as consistently as expected, finishing the campaign with nine goals and three assists in 29 appearances.
AC Milan also failed to secure a place in the Champions League, adding to an underwhelming season for the club and increasing attention on the future of their number 10.
Despite the transfer reports involving Galatasaray and Arsenal, Leao’s public statement did not indicate that he is seeking to leave. Instead, he used the post to reject what he described as speculation and inaccurate news, while making clear that decisions regarding his career and personal interests are being handled by his family and legal representatives.
A separate item on the same page also examined the uncertainty surrounding Lionel Messi’s possible return to the United States.
