FC Barcelona already has a clear target for the next summer transfer window: Rafael Leão. The Portuguese forward from AC Milan is seen by the blaugrana management as the ideal signing to strengthen the attack and return the team to the top of European football.
However, the operation will not be simple. With a contract valid until 2028, the Italian club doesn't plan to part with its star at a low price.
Faced with this difficulty, Deco, Barça's sporting director, has designed a strategy that could be key. The plan involves including a player in the negotiation to reduce the transfer cost. That name is none other than a Barça footballer who, despite his flashes of quality, hasn't managed to establish himself at Camp Nou.
Rafael Leão, Barça's Great Desire
Rafael Leão has become one of the standout figures in Serie A. His ability to unbalance, his speed, and his power have established him as one of AC Milan's stars. His ability to play both on the wing and in the center of the attack fits perfectly into Hansi Flick's scheme.
The bet on Leão is not just sporting. Joan Laporta sees in the Portuguese a strategic investment that could make Barça a competitive team on an international level. With players like Pedri, Lamine Yamal, and Gavi leading the project, the addition of a profile like Leão's would be a leap in quality.
From Italy, Milan's stance is firm: they will not let their star leave for less than a considerable financial figure. However, the possibility of including a player with experience in top leagues like LaLiga and the Premier League could tip the balance in Barça's favor.
The Role of the Barça Player in the Operation
The footballer that Barça is willing to offer as part of the deal hasn't managed to find his place in the team since his arrival. Although his quality and versatility are undeniable, his impact has been inconsistent. Under Flick's orders, the player has been relegated to a secondary role due to the preference for other profiles in attack like Lamine Yamal and Raphinha.
At AC Milan, however, they value the player's qualities. His experience in European competitions and his ability to adapt to different styles make him an attractive piece for Stefano Pioli's project. The inclusion of this footballer could significantly reduce the cost of signing Leão, a maneuver that Barça considers key given its financial limitations.
Rafael Leão wouldn't only bring talent and imbalance to Barça but also a dose of excitement for a fanbase eager to see the team competing at the highest level again. His youth and projection make him a strategic long-term signing, and his potential arrival would be a clear message that Barça continues to strive for sporting excellence.
On the other hand, the departure of the player offered in the exchange would be seen as an opportunity for both parties. While Barça would free up salary space and finance part of the operation, the footballer would have the chance to relaunch his career in a different environment.
The Outcome of the Operation
The Barça player who could be involved in this operation is Ferran Torres. Since his arrival from Manchester City, Ferran has had brilliant moments, but his performance hasn't been consistent. The competition in the blaugrana attack and Flick's tactical decisions have relegated him to a secondary role, which has raised doubts.
In Milan, Ferran could find a new beginning. His ability to play on both wings and as a center forward would fit into the Italian team's scheme. Additionally, his experience in international competitions makes him an interesting addition for the Rossoneri.
Barça trusts that this strategy will unlock an operation that could change the team's course. Meanwhile, both Ferran Torres and Rafael Leão will be alert to the movements of their clubs in a summer market that promises to be decisive.