Rafael Leão is smiling again. And, in his case, that’s no small detail. After his end-of-season statements, which seemed to foreshadow a farewell to Milan, the Portuguese player arrived in Perth appearing calm, joking with teammates during training sessions. It’s an image that tells at least part of the story: his relationship with the Rossoneri squad doesn’t appear to be compromised.

A less inevitable departure

At the end of May, Leão hinted at wanting to change teams and leagues. The transfer market, however, hasn’t so far offered him the desired solution. The most concrete proposals have come from Turkey, with Fenerbahçe and Galatasaray interested, while the Premier League and La Liga have yet to make a real move. So, at the beginning of August, staying at Milan has become a much more realistic option.

Fenerbahçe and Galatasaray waiting in the wings

Fenerbahçe remains the main candidate to take him away from Milan. According to the latest reports, the Turkish club is ready to go as high as 45-50 million euros, but Milan continues to value Leão at no less than 60 million. Galatasaray, instead, remains in the background. The financial gap is therefore still significant and could prove decisive for the number 10’s future.

Amorim could change everything

There is another factor: Ruben Amorim. The coach knows Leão well and wants to assess him on the pitch. The Portuguese forward will have to adapt to a more intense style of play, featuring high pressing, pace, and greater involvement in the game. The Australian tour, including the friendly against Inter, could therefore become a real test for his stay.

Staying is still possible

Milan’s transfer strategy is inevitably tied to Leão’s future: his sale would free up space and resources for new attacking reinforcements. But if no one meets the asking price, the Portuguese player may once again find himself fighting for his place in red and black. The situation is still open, but the scenario has changed: Leão is no longer simply a player on his way out. He’s now a player who can still try to secure his future at Milan.