Fenerbahce have taken a concrete step in their pursuit of Rafael Leao by submitting an initial proposal to AC Milan during the summer transfer window. The Turkish giants have made their interest official as they look to bring the Portuguese winger to Istanbul ahead of the new season.
Reports indicate that Fenerbahce’s first offer was worth around €40 million plus additional bonuses. However, AC Milan are not ready to accept the proposal because the Rossoneri are looking for a different transfer structure and a deal that better matches their valuation of the player.
Negotiations between the two clubs are expected to continue in the coming weeks, with Rafael Leao reportedly unlikely to remain at San Siro for the upcoming campaign.
According to reports from Sportitalia, Sport Mediaset, and Turkish transfer expert Yagiz Sabuncuoglu, discussions between Fenerbahce and AC Milan have already entered an advanced stage.
Fenerbahce’s First Bid Falls Short of AC Milan’s Demands
Fenerbahce have shown serious commitment in their attempt to sign Rafael Leao. The club reportedly sent director Cihan Kamer and a delegation to Italy to negotiate directly with AC Milan.
The Fenerbahce representatives were even spotted arriving at Malpensa Airport, highlighting the seriousness of their efforts to complete the transfer.
According to Sportitalia and Yagiz Sabuncuoglu, the Turkish club’s proposal is valued at approximately €40 million. Meanwhile, Sport Mediaset revealed that the offer includes a loan arrangement worth €5 million, followed by a mandatory purchase clause of €35 million at the end of the season.
The proposal also reportedly includes performance-related bonuses worth around €2 million, which would depend on Rafael Leao’s appearances and achievements.
However, AC Milan are not convinced by the structure of the deal. The Italian club are believed to have rejected the idea of a loan move with an obligation to buy and would prefer a straightforward permanent transfer.
AC Milan Insist on Permanent Transfer Agreement
AC Milan have maintained the same position in negotiations with other interested clubs, including Galatasaray and Benfica. The Rossoneri are only willing to allow Rafael Leao to leave if they receive a permanent transfer offer.
The reason behind Milan’s stance is linked to their plans for the summer transfer market. The club are looking to generate significant funds to continue strengthening the squad after already spending more than €100 million on new arrivals such as Goncalo Ramos and Mario Gila.
As a result, AC Milan have set their asking price for Rafael Leao at around €50 million. The club believe the Portugal international remains a valuable asset and will not consider accepting a lower fee unless the transfer conditions are improved.
With both sides having different expectations, negotiations are expected to continue until Fenerbahce and Milan find an agreement that satisfies all parties.
Rafael Leao Attracted by Fenerbahce’s Lucrative Contract Offer
While discussions between the clubs are still ongoing, Rafael Leao is reportedly open to joining Fenerbahce if a transfer agreement can be reached.
The Turkish club are believed to be preparing an attractive contract package worth approximately €12 million per season for the Portuguese forward.
That salary would represent a significant increase compared to what Leao currently earns at AC Milan. The financial aspect is considered one of the biggest attractions behind Fenerbahce’s attempt to convince the player.
Fenerbahce are hoping that their ambitious project, combined with the lucrative contract offer, can persuade Leao to choose the Turkish Super Lig as the next chapter of his career.
Rafael Leao Transfer Saga Still Far From Over
Despite Fenerbahce’s strong interest and their opening proposal, the final decision remains dependent on negotiations between the two clubs.
AC Milan are determined to secure a deal that meets their financial expectations, while Fenerbahce must decide whether they are willing to improve their offer to close the gap.
For now, Rafael Leao’s future remains uncertain. The Portuguese winger could be heading toward a new challenge in Turkey, but until Milan receive an acceptable permanent transfer proposal, the potential move to Fenerbahce will remain unresolved.
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