FC Barcelona is still looking for reinforcements for the next season, and in recent days an unexpected possibility has emerged. Rafael Leão, AC Milan's star, has offered himself to Barça to wear the blue and garnet jersey starting in the summer of 2025.
Although the culé club had other priorities, such as Nico Williams, the possibility of signing Leão has caught the board's attention. Hansi Flick and Joan Laporta are evaluating the option, but there is a significant obstacle: the player has put 4 key demands on the table to finalize his arrival.
Leão, A Luxury Signing for Barça
Rafael Leão is one of the most unbalancing wingers in European soccer. His speed, dribbling ability, and effectiveness in one-on-one situations make him a standout player.
The Portuguese has been key for Milan in recent years, but his relationship with the Italian club is not at its best. Despite being one of the team's stars, Leão feels that his cycle at San Siro has ended and is looking for a challenge.
Therefore, his entourage has moved quickly to offer him to Barça as a real option for the summer of 2025. However, his signing won't be easy, as the player has made it clear that he will only accept the offer if the club meets his conditions.
Rafael Leão's 4 Conditions to Sign for Barça
🔹 Guarantee of Starting Position: Leão wants to be a key player in Flick's scheme. He doesn't accept joining Barça to be a substitute or compete for minutes; he demands to have a main role in the starting eleven.
🔹 Maintain His Current Salary: The Portuguese winger earns around 7 million euros net per season at Milan. He is not willing to reduce his salary and demands that Barça offer him a contract under the same conditions.
🔹 A Personal Fitness Coach: Leão has had muscle problems in the past and wants to ensure that his performance is not affected. He requests that the club allow him to work with his own fitness team.
🔹 Signing Completed Before August: He doesn't want his incorporation to be delayed until the last day of the market, as has happened with other recent Barça signings. He demands that his future be solved before the start of LaLiga so he can adapt from day one.
Does Leão Fit in Flick's Barça?
Barça is looking to strengthen its attack with a winger who brings speed and dribbling, qualities in which Leão excels. However, the arrival of the Portuguese could complicate the situation for players like Raphinha or Ferran Torres, who are already on the team.
On the other hand, the investment to sign him won't be low. Milan won't let their star leave for less than 90-100 million euros, which represents a significant financial effort for Barça.
The board will have to assess whether meeting Leão's demands is a viable option, as the club also has other urgent needs. Such as strengthening the midfield and the full-backs.
Will Barça Accept Leão's Conditions?
Joan Laporta and Deco are analyzing the situation. Signing Leão could elevate the team's level, but it poses a significant financial challenge.
The Portuguese, meanwhile, is still waiting for Barça's reply while keeping other options open in the market. If the culé club doesn't move quickly, he could end up in another team.
The outcome of this story will be known in the coming months. For now, Leão has made it clear that he wants to play at Camp Nou, but only if Barça meets his demands.