Soccer Football - Serie A - AC Milan v Juventus - San Siro, Milan, Italy - October 8, 2022 AC Milan's Rafael Leao celebrates after the match REUTERS/Daniele Mascolo
Manchester City have now set their sights on AC Milan star forward Rafael Leao, according to reports.
The Lowdown: Guardiola a fan…
The Sky Blues are currently contending for their third-successive Premier League crown as England’s champions seemingly compete with main contenders Arsenal.
Before their most recent loss to Liverpool in the league, Pep Guardiola’s side looked practically invincible at times, thanks in part to the imperious form of marquee summer signing Erling Haaland.
However, the Anfield defeat highlights that City aren’t unbeatable, and could even perhaps afford to strengthen further in key areas.
The Eastlands outfit have scored more goals than any other side in the top flight, yet according to reports, they appear to be eyeing a move for Milan winger Leao – just a year after claims Guardiola has ‘fallen in love’ with him.
The Latest: City set sights on Leao…
Claims from the Italian press have now resurfaced linking City chiefs with a move for the Portugal international.
Calciomercato have shared news that the Blues, alongside rivals Chelsea and Ligue 1 giants Paris-Saint Germain, have set their sights on Leao and are always ‘at the window’.
The 23-year-old sensation apparently has a €150 million (£131m) release clause in his current contract but the player wishes to reduce that figure as he negotiates fresh terms.
The Verdict: Worth the effort?
There is no denying Leao’s quality in the forward areas, especially given he’s already bagged a brilliant four goals and four assists in just eight Serie A appearances this season (WhoScored).
In that time, he’s also averaged more attempts at goal and successful take-ons per 90 than any of his teammates – leaving little wonder members of the media have described the winger as ‘world class’.
City already have Jack Grealish, Julian Alvarez, Riyad Mahrez, Phil Foden, Bernardo Silva and Cole Palmer who can shine in Leao’s position – perhaps questioning the need for yet another forward.
That being said, Guardiola is arguably the world’s best tactician, and if he is an alleged fan of Leao, who are the Blues to refuse him?
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