Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal teammate wants dream transfer to play alongside Lamine Yamal at Barcelona: Reports
Cristiano Ronaldo's teammate in the Portugal national team Rafael Leao is eager for a move to Barcelona to play alongside Lamine Yamal, as per reports. The Spanish giants are looking to sign a new left winger this summer, with the likes of Luis Diaz and Marcus Rashford having been linked with them.
Catalan outlet El Nacional reports that Leao has made his wish to play for Barcelona known, as he believes he will thrive alongside Yamal. The AC Milan man is ready to leave the Serie A outfit, with a move to the reigning LaLiga champions at the top of his wishlist.
AC Milan have placed a price tag of €100 million on Rafael Leao but will be willing to accept offers in the region of €80 million for the Portuguese forward. The 26-year-old, who rose through the Sporting Club ranks like Cristiano Ronaldo, is widely expected to move this summer, with the club expecting serious offers for him.
Leao is unlikely to get a move to Barcelona this summer, seeing as the club have their sights on different targets for their left wing position. Their lack of financial muscle acomplicates issues, even if they decide to sign a winger, as they have cheaper alternatives on their list.
Rafael Leao is prepared to hold out for a transfer for Barcelona, even if it means asking his agent to turn down offers from other sides. The former Lille man will not get a move to the Spanish champions anytime soon but may see his value reduce in coming windows, easing his transfer.
Cristiano Ronaldo pleads for protection for Barcelona ace Lamine Yamal
Portugal and Al-Nassr legend Cristiano Ronaldo has asked that Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal be protected from unnecessary pressure. The 40-year-old made his comments in the aftermath of the UEFA Nations League final, which his Portugal side won on penalties.
Lamine Yamal featured for Spain in the final but was largely subdued, and Ronaldo praised the youngster after the game. He predicted (via Barca Universal) that the 17-year-old will have a long, successful career but needs to be left alone, for now.
"He’s only 17, and already he’s showing incredible talent. He’s going to win a lot of titles, both collective and individual. He is a phenomenon. But we have to leave him alone, that’s what I ask. He has a very long career ahead of him and will surely win the Nations League many times.”
Lamine Yamal helped Barcelona win LaLiga, Copa del Rey, and the Supercopa de Espana to earn Ballon d'Or shouts this year. Cristiano Ronaldo and his Portugal side stopped the youngster from adding another piece of silverware, but he remains one of the frontrunners for most individual honours this year.