The announcement

AC Milan's Portuguese forward Rafael Leão has confirmed he is ready to leave the Serie A club, stating in an interview with Sport TV Portugal that he has 'given everything' and is seeking a new challenge in a different league. The 26-year-old, who joined Milan from Lille in 2019, made the declaration during an event organized by one of his sponsor brands, sending a clear message to the Rossoneri hierarchy.

“I think I have already given everything I had at Milan. It was a club that helped me grow a lot, that supported me in difficult moments. Fortunately, I also managed to write my name in the club's history.”

A seven-year legacy

Leão's tenure at Milan spans seven years, during which he made 291 appearances and scored 80 goals. His trophy cabinet with the club includes a Serie A title won in the 2021/22 season and an Italian Super Cup in 2024/25, the latter under Portuguese coach Sérgio Conceição. Despite a disappointing final season where Milan finished fifth in Serie A and missed Champions League qualification, Leão registered 10 goals and 3 assists in 31 matches.

“Everyone has dreams and challenges they aspire to have, and I aspire to a new challenge in a new league. If that happens, I will be very happy and fulfilled because I did my job at AC Milan.”

Contract and market implications

Leão is under contract with Milan until 2028, with a release clause set at 150 million euros. However, his public declaration may weaken Milan's negotiating position, as the club now faces pressure to sell an asset whose value could depreciate. The player has been linked with several clubs, including Manchester United, Al-Nassr, and Turkish giants Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe.

World Cup first, then a decision

When asked directly about his preferred destination among the Premier League, La Liga, or the Saudi Pro League, Leão deflected, emphasizing his immediate focus on the upcoming 2026 World Cup with the Portuguese national team. He confirmed he will evaluate his options after the tournament, but stressed his desire to continue competing at the highest level of European football.

“The most important thing now is the World Cup. I want to have a good World Cup and help the national team as much as I can. When that moment comes, I will study the best options for my career and to continue competing at the top of European football.”

What comes next

With Leão's departure now seemingly inevitable, attention turns to the summer transfer window and which club will meet Milan's valuation. The player's preference for remaining in Europe narrows the field, though the Saudi league remains a lucrative possibility. For Milan, losing a player of Leão's caliber marks another blow in what has been a turbulent period for the club.