FC Barcelona is always on the lookout for the best talents in world soccer, and Rafael Leão has been one of the board's great obsessions. His talent, explosiveness, and ability to unbalance make him a desired winger, capable of making a difference in any team.
However, Barça's constant economic problems have made his signing impossible in recent seasons. Despite Jorge Mendes's attempts, his agent, to bring him closer to Camp Nou, the lack of money and the club's priorities have frustrated the operation.
Now, Rafael Leão has made a decisive decision. He is tired of waiting for Barça and is already negotiating his future with another club.
Jorge Mendes and Rafael Leão, a Key Meeting
The Portuguese forward from AC Milan has experienced difficult moments in recent seasons. With the previous coach, Paulo Fonseca, he lost prominence and spent several matches on the bench, something he didn't like at all. Despite his few opportunities, he always replied with goals and assists.
The arrival of Sérgio Conceição to Milan's bench changed his situation. The coach has regained confidence in him, restoring his role as the team's offensive leader. Even so, Leão feels that his time in Italy might be coming to an end.
According to several sources, in recent weeks he has held private meetings with his agent, Jorge Mendes, to define his future. Although his dream has always been to play for Barça, the lack of real interest from the blaugranas has changed his plans.
Getting Ahead of Barça
While FC Barcelona still hasn't made a serious move for him, Arsenal has entered the negotiation strongly. Mikel Arteta believes that Leão is the perfect piece to strengthen his attack and has made him a concrete offer.
Jorge Mendes has already spoken with Milan's management and Leão himself. Everything indicates that the Portuguese winger is enticed by the idea of playing in the Premier League and being part of a solid project like Arsenal's.
The English team is willing to pay whatever Milan asks, something Barça can't match at the moment. Arsenal's offer would be between 80 and 100 million euros, a figure that would make it very difficult for Milan to reject the operation.
Barça Lets a Star Slip Away
For FC Barcelona, the possible arrival of Leão would have been a top-level signing. Although Raphinha has raised his level in recent weeks, a player like the Portuguese would have given the team a notable quality boost.
The problem is that Barça, with its financial situation, can't afford to sign Leão without first making several important sales. Milan has never accepted the option of a loan or an installment payment, conditions that the blaugrana club needed to make it viable.
Jorge Mendes has tried to bring the forward to Camp Nou, but Barça hasn't made a move in time. Arsenal, on the other hand, has been quicker and more effective, and is already in advanced negotiations with the player.
For Rafael Leão, the wait is over. His patience with Barcelona has run out, and he has decided to accept Arsenal's interest, where he will have a leading role and a contract in line with his level.
This is a hard blow for Laporta and Deco, who always had him on their list of possible reinforcements, but never found a way to close his signing.
Meanwhile, Barça continues to struggle to balance its accounts, Arsenal is preparing to announce its new star. Leão is changing scenery, and the Premier League will be his next destination.