Jorge Mendes has reportedly offered Real Madrid the chance to sign 23-year-old Portuguese international Rafael Leao.
According to a report by Spanish outlet Fichajes, Jorge Mendes has offered Rafael Leao to Real Madrid. But the reigning La Liga champions do not want to drive a hard bargain for the 23-year-old with AC Milan and will only launch the offensive if the Portuguese international pushes for a move.
Rafael Leao has enjoyed a stunning rise to superstardom since joining AC Milan from LOSC Lille in August 2019. The player had always been promising during his stints with Lille and Sporting CP. But he finally raised his levels after arriving at San Siro three and a half years ago.
The 23-year-old was the driving factor in AC Milan’s Serie A title-winning campaign in 2021/22. And the Portuguese international is enjoying another solid season, amassing seven goals and nine assists in 20 appearances. Leao’s exploits have not gone unnoticed either, with several high-profile clubs, including Real Madrid, interested in him.
Real Madrid will likely enter the market for an offensive reinforcement in the summer transfer window. With Eden Hazard enduring another frustrating campaign, the Belgian international’s days at the Santiago Bernabeu seem numbered. In addition, Marco Asensio is yet to sign a new deal, with his contract running out in the summer.
So Real Madrid might need to sign at least one wide attacker next year despite Vinicius Junior’s exploits. And amid Karim Benzema’s fitness woes this season, Leao has emerged as a viable target. The 23-year-old Portuguese international can play across the frontline, making him an attractive option.
But recent reports have claimed that Leao is an impossible target for Real Madrid. And despite the offer from Jorge Mendes, a move might not be on the cards. That is because AC Milan will likely be a tough negotiator. And Real Madrid will need the player to push for a move to the Bernabeu to secure his signature.
In addition, with clubs like Chelsea also in the equation, the race to sign the 23-year-old Portuguese international will be fierce. But if Leao does not sign a new contract with AC Milan, the Rossoneri might not have an option but to cash in on him next summer.
