Barcelona handed huge boost in pursuit of 25-year-old Serie A star: Reports
Barcelona target Rafael Leao has asked his target to find a new club either in January or next summer, according to Tuttosport. The Portuguese forward has reportedly had a fallout with AC Milan manager Paulo Fonseca and is now ready to leave San Siro.
The Catalans are long-term admirers of the 25-year-old and also considered a move for the player earlier this summer. The LaLiga giants wanted to strengthen their attack and initially had their eyes on Nico Williams.
However, once it became clear that prising the 22-year-old from Athletic Bilbao wouldn't be possible, Barcelona briefly considered a move for Leao. Unfortunately, their precarious financial situation proved to be the problem once again and the deal never materialized.
Meanwhile, the Portuguese forward's relationship with Fonseca has deteriorated in recent weeks. Leao suddenly finds himself down the pecking order under the Portuguese manager.
The player started the crucial tie against Napoli - which AC Milan lost 2-1 - from the bench, and was only introduced in the middle of the second half. The Portuguese forward now has one goal and four assists from 11 games this season and wants to leave.
The recent events will be music to the Catalans' ears. Unfortunately, the LaLiga giants are struggling with their finances once again and even Dani Olmo's registration could be an issue at the turn of the year. However, should Barcelona manage to return to LaLiga's 1:1 rule in 2025, a move for Leao could materialize at the end of this season.
How has the Barcelona attack performed this season?
When Hansi Flick took over this summer, Barcelona were in a state of disorder. The Catalans were coming off a trophyless campaign and had watched bitter rivals Real Madrid do a league and Champions League double.
Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha were among the players linked with an exit from Camp Nou. A few months into the season, none of those matters anymore. Barcelona have been brilliant under Flick, who has taken them to the top of the league table.
The Catalans have won 10 of their 11 games in the league and demolished Real Madrid 4-0 last weekend. They now have 12 wins in 14 games across competitions, thanks to their forwards.
Lewandowski has scored 17 times in 14 games and set up two more. Raphinha, meanwhile, has found a new lease of life under the German manager, registering 10 goals and nine assists from 14 games. Lamine Yamal has also been terrific, scoring six times and setting up seven more in 14 outings.