Newsletters
Fenerbahce presidential candidate Hakan Safi has reportedly opened talks with Italian club AC Milan over a possible move for Portuguese star Rafael Leao ahead of the Istanbul club’s upcoming electoral congress.
Turkish media reported that Safi flew to Italy for direct talks with Milan officials and Leao’s entourage as part of efforts to bring in a high-profile signing ahead of Fenerbahce’s presidential election to strengthen his position in the race.
Safi attended Milan’s 3-2 defeat to Atalanta from the stands while reportedly continuing negotiations for the winger, who is widely expected to leave the Italian club this summer.
A photo shared on social media by Turkish sports journalist Yagiz Sabuncuoglu showed Safi entering Milan’s club headquarters on Monday, raising speculation that transfer talks had advanced further.
According to the Italian media, Leao had become unhappy this season at Milan following tensions with coach Massimiliano Allegri, inconsistent performances this year, and growing pressure from supporters.
During the last match, tensions with the fans deepened as the player was once again booed by supporters, while he also turned down a contract extension until 2030, according to Italian outlet TuttomercatoWeb.
An earlier report by La Gazzetta Della Sport suggested that Milan had decided to listen to offers for the Portuguese forward during the summer transfer window. Although Leao’s contract reportedly includes a €175 million ($205.6 million) release clause, club officials are said to value a potential deal closer to €40 million-€50 million.
Valued at €65 million, Rafael Leao came through the academy ranks at Portuguese club Sporting CP before joining French side Lille OSC for €20 million in 2018. After spending one season in France, the Portuguese winger moved to AC Milan in 2019 in a deal worth around €50 million. Leao’s contract, under which he earns €6.5 million per year, runs until 2028.
Leao has made 290 appearances for the Italian club so far, recording 80 goals and 65 assists. This season, the 26-year-old left winger has registered 10 goals and three assists in 30 appearances, while missing 11 matches through injury.
Safi, 53, is a Turkish businessman who owns Turkish conglomerate Safi Holding, which is renowned as a leading port operator managing Derince, one of Türkiye’s major export terminals. He is currently competing in the presidential race against Turkish businessman Aziz Yildirim, who previously led the club for 20 years.
Set as preferred source
Set as preferred source
1 min read
1 min read
