Tottenham have been offered an attractive summer deal for AC Milan star Rafael Leao, and there are reasons why Spurs should definitely consider it.
Spurs are not slowing down after breaking Sandro Tonali’s transfer record, with Roberto De Zerbi looking to strengthen his attack ahead of the new Premier League season.
The Italian midfielder arrives in north London in a deal worth up to £100m, joining fellow summer signing Matheus Fernandes as part of a major rebuild under De Zerbi.
With a midfield transformation, Spurs are now focused on adding more firepower in the final third.
Tottenham set to sign World Cup duo for £128m after signing Sandro Tonali
Spurs have “big ambitions”.
Bournemouth sensation Eli Junior Crupi is said to be one of the club’s main attacking targets after his breakthrough, while Man City’s Sabinho has also been the subject of talks with Spurs during this period.
In recent days, another famous person has also joined the conversation, and his connection to Leo has also been revealed.
The Portugal international, who was part of the team that beat Croatia 2-1 to reach the last 16 at last night’s World Cup, could leave the San Siro this summer after seven seasons.
Why Tottenham should offer and take Rafael Leao’s contract
According to Alessandra Gozzini of La Gazzetta dello Sport, Leo has been offered by Tottenham as Milan look for ways to restructure their squad.
The winger is thought to be looking for a new challenge after spending many years at Milan, although the Italian club are currently preparing to discuss his departure.
Milan are reportedly seeking up to £60m for Leo, but could accept a deal with an initial loan with an obligation to buy if it guarantees a future move.
That flexibility could make the move more attractive, especially after an already lavish summer of spending, as Tottenham look to spread their financial costs over multiple financial periods.
The distinguishing attributes of Rafael Leao, given by Spurs as a replacement for Crupi and Savinho
Leo has long been considered one of Serie A’s most dangerous attacking players.
Able to play on the left or in the middle, he combines explosive speed with excellent one-on-one ability.
He played a central role in Milan’s team that won the Serie A title in 2022, and despite a shaky season last season, he remained one of the club’s biggest attacking threats.
His situation has now changed.
With Milan planning a different future under manager Ruben Amorim, the club is willing to listen to offers that would have previously been summarily rejected.
Football Fancast Verdict | |
|---|---|
reliability | La Gazzetta dello Sport is one of Italy’s most established sports newspapers and has strong links throughout Serie A, making it a strong source of Italian football news. However, that transfer coverage can be aggressive, and while some exclusive information has been proven to be accurate, others remain speculative. Although it is respected, it is not considered infallible. |
finances | A back-to-back £60m deal would be a huge commitment for Leo after Tottenham spent heavily this summer. An obligation-to-purchase loan seems much more viable and would allow Spurs to spread costs over the accounting period while more comfortably managing PSR/SCR, cash flow and other transfer priorities. |
insight | Rafael Leao built his reputation by excelling in three different leagues. After breaking out with Sporting, he had a breakout season with Lille before joining AC Milan in 2019. There he became Serie A champion, developing into one of Portugal’s main wingers and establishing himself as one of Europe’s elite attackers, although he has struggled with inconsistency in recent years. |
impact | Leo would give Tottenham a real star quality in the final third. His speed, dribbling and ability to create his own chances will make Spurs even more dangerous on the counter. Under De Zerbi, he was able to develop with an attack centered on quick transitions, movement and fearless one-on-one play. |
It remains to be seen whether Tottenham will take action.
Crupi is young and a long-term investment, while Sabinho has proven Premier League experience. Leo is somewhere in between. The established international player is still nearing his peak.
From Tottenham’s perspective, the appeal is clear.
you scored
out of 20
De Zerbi clearly wants a fast, aggressive attacker who can isolate defenders and create chances for himself. Leo has been doing just that for years.
His ability to carry the ball over long distances, beat defenders one-on-one and stretch the defensive line will add a new dimension to Spurs’ attack.
If Tottenham are serious about competing for major honors after signing Tonali, they feel Leo is the type of player who can take their front line to another level.
The 27-year-old has scored 80 goals and provided 65 assists in nearly 300 appearances for the Rossoneri, including contributing 14 goals in the Champions League.
Tottenham star Micky van de Ven reacts to Sandro Tonali’s £100m deal on social media
Spurs achieved a club record signing on Wednesday.
