Following an outstanding season where Barcelona secured a domestic treble — claiming the La Liga title, Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup — the club’s leadership has started working on ways to strengthen the squad ahead of next season.
With Hansi Flick recently appointed as head coach, the Catalan side is eager to assemble a team capable of maintaining dominance in Spain while also reestablishing themselves as a competitive force on the European stage.
According to a report by Spanish publication El Nacional, one of the names drawing serious attention at Camp Nou is AC Milan’s Portuguese forward, Rafael Leão. The 25-year-old winger is reportedly eager for a new challenge and views Barcelona as the ideal destination to elevate his career.
Leão believes this is the right time to leave Serie A behind in favor of a club known for ambition, a youthful squad, and a project focused on continuous improvement — qualities he associates with Flick’s Barcelona.
A major factor fueling Leão’s interest is the opportunity to play alongside some of Europe’s brightest young talents, including Lamine Yamal, Pedri, Gavi, and Frenkie de Jong. Leão is especially keen on forming a partnership with Yamal, who captured headlines throughout the previous season with his remarkable performances. The Portuguese attacker envisions building one of Europe’s most electrifying attacking duos with the young Spanish star.
Barcelona’s recent success and attractive, attacking football have also impressed Leão, particularly the revival of the club’s signature playing style under Flick’s guidance. This resurgence has not gone unnoticed by the Portuguese international, who sees it as a chance to join a team on the rise and reclaiming its status among Europe’s elite.
Within the club’s management, Leão is held in high regard. President Joan Laporta is believed to be a strong admirer of the winger, viewing him as a valuable asset both in terms of sporting quality and marketing potential.
Acquiring Leão would be a significant statement of intent from Barcelona, signaling their determination to reassert themselves in European football.
While no official talks have begun between Barcelona and AC Milan, Leão is reportedly on the club’s shortlist, with director Deco and president Laporta monitoring the situation. Should Milan lower their demands to around €50–55 million, Barcelona might be prepared to make an offer — provided they can raise funds through player sales. For Leão, the prospect of joining Barcelona and competing for major honors under Flick is an opportunity he eagerly anticipates.
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