Barça Sees It Increasingly Difficult to Sign Rafael Leão This Summer. According to 'E-Notícies', the Portuguese forward is moving away from the culer orbit due to several factors. Joan Laporta Dreamed of Bringing the Milan Winger to Barcelona, convinced that he would be the star signing that would most excite the fans.
However, the economic complications and the high figures surrounding the player have been cooling the interest in him, distancing that dream that seemed possible months ago.
His Transfer Cost and Salary, Major Handicaps
One of the main obstacles for Rafael Leão to wear the blaugrana jersey is his high salary. Currently, the Portuguese winger earns 8 million net per season at Milan, but it is expected that, if he comes, he will demand even more. Barça, which continues to deal with a tight wage bill imposed by La Liga, sees it unfeasible to assume a salary of that size.
To this is added the high transfer price that Milan asks for its star. The figures being discussed far exceed 100 million euros, an amount that Barça finds difficult to pay. The board understands that such a high investment, added to the high salary, would make it impossible to comply with La Liga's financial regulations.
Deco Bets on Another Star
Meanwhile Laporta dreamed of Leão, Deco bets on a different option: Luis Díaz. The Colombian winger from Liverpool has become Deco's main target to strengthen the left wing of the attack. The former Portuguese player believes that Luis fits better in the profile that Barça needs, standing out for his dribbling and defensive sacrifice ability, qualities that Hansi Flick values highly.
Besides his football fit, Deco sees Luis Díaz as a more viable opportunity from an economic standpoint. Although it is still a costly operation, the price and conditions of the Colombian better fit the current situation of the club.
Liverpool Asks for About 80 Million
Liverpool, aware of Barça's interest, has already valued Luis Díaz at about 80 million. Although it is still a considerable figure, it is far from the more than 100 million that Milan asks for Leão. Additionally, it has been reported that Luis would be delighted to come to Barcelona, which would facilitate negotiations.
The player's desire to wear the blaugrana jersey is a key point in this operation. Luis Díaz looks favorably on the possibility of being part of Hansi Flick's project. With the Colombian willing and at a more reasonable cost, the club is now focused on trying to close a signing that, although complex, seems more feasible than the dream of Leão.