Arsenal’s chances of signing Rafael Leao this summer have effectively been scuppered by the winger signing a new contract at AC Milan with an enormous release clause.
Arsenal’s chances of signing winger Rafael Leao have been effectively dashed after he signed a new contract with AC Milan, extending his stay at the club until 2028. The new deal reportedly includes a release clause worth €175m, making it unlikely that any but the wealthiest clubs could afford to sign him. Leao joined Milan from Lille in 2019 and has been highly regarded by the club, with technical director Paolo Maldini recently describing him as their best player and the best player of last season.
Leao is Milan’s joint top scorer this season with 13 goals in all competitions
Arsenal to chase other targets as Milan hope for Leao return
With Rafael Leao set to extend his stay at AC Milan with a new contract that includes a high release clause, Arsenal will likely have to look for other targets to bolster their squad ahead of their return to the Champions League next season. Milan, on the other hand, will be hoping to have Leao back for their upcoming Champions League semi-final second leg against Inter, having lost the first leg 2-0 on Wednesday night.