A soccer player in a red and black jersey in front of the FC Barcelona crest.

Confirmed, swap deal closed with Milan for Leão: 2 Barça players in exchange and...

The Portuguese coach has requested reinforcements to start his project from scratch in the summer.

Barça is clear that signing a winger will be its main objective in the next summer transfer market. In this regard, the most desired player is Rafa Leão.

Football player wearing AC Milan shirt celebrating on the pitch.
Rafael Leão at Milan | @iamrafaeleao93

Barça sees Leão as the ideal complement for its attack, and in recent weeks, his name has gained momentum to occupy that position ahead of Nico Williams. Although the market is always uncertain, the figure of the Milan player is one of the most attractive on the radar of the blaugrana board.

The economic situation changes the paradigm for Laporta

The signing of Leão, however, won't be easy because Milan isn't willing to let him go at an affordable price. But, despite the difficulty of negotiating with the Italians, Barça is determined to take the step to acquire Leão. Additionally, the club's economic situation has improved, which could allow them to make a high-caliber signing.

Barça has once again complied with the 1:1 Fair Play rule, which gives them greater flexibility to undertake significant investments. Additionally, the recent signing of the contract with Nike has also provided economic relief and has caused an optimistic atmosphere within the entity. Therefore, Joan Laporta has expressed confidence in being able to carry out a major operation this summer.

The relationship with Jorge Mendes will be key

Another key piece in the possible arrival of Rafa Leão at Barça could be his agent, Jorge Mendes. The Portuguese, known for his negotiation skills and his close relationship with Laporta, could play an essential role in easing Milan's demands. The relationship between Mendes and Laporta is excellent, which facilitates both clubs reaching an agreement on favorable terms for Barça.

However, Milan won't easily let go of its star, and the transfer fee could exceed 100 million. It will be at this point where Mendes's figure could intervene to reduce the price of the operation to reach an agreement that benefits all parties.

Sergio Conceição wants a Barça player and Milan offers 20 M

However, the signing of Rafa Leão won't be the only operation that Barça and Milan will negotiate next summer market. According to several Italian media, Sergio Conceição has shown interest in Ferran Torres. Milan would be willing to offer about 20 million euros for the Spanish forward, a figure that the Catalan club might consider.

Soccer players in action during a match, one in a blue and red uniform and the other in a black and white uniform, while a referee watches in the background.
Ferran Torres in the match against Valencia | @FCBarcelona

In this context, this operation could be key to unlocking the signing of Leão, as it would help Barça make room and negotiate. This way, both parties could find a solution that favors their respective interests.