Rafael Leao linked with huge transfer ahead of deadline in move that would rock world football

AC Milan star Rafael Leao has been linked with a stunning late transfer ahead of Monday's European deadline.

Leao, 25, is one of the most talked-about players in European football after producing a string of impressive performances for Milan.

Prior to moving to Italy, the Portuguese winger played at Sporting Clube de Portugal before joining Lille.

During his time in France, Leao caught the eyes of many clubs around Europe but chose to join Milan in 2019 for a reported fee of €35 million.

Since then, the 25-year-old has made 239 appearances for the club across all competitions, scoring 66 goals.

So far in the 24/25 season, Leao has managed eight goals and seven assists in 29 matches for Milan.

With just days left in the European transfer market, Leao has been linked with making a late move away from San Siro.

As reported by Gianluca Di Marzio, Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr are interested in signing Leao and are willing to invest around €70 million to €85 million to lure the Portuguese to the Middle East.

However, it has been claimed that Milan are 'not open' to negotiations with their transfer window closing in a few days.

Rafael Leao has been linked with a move away from AC Milan. Image: Getty

Al Nassr also face a race against the clock with their window set to slam shut on Friday. Previously, Leao has also been linked with Premier League clubs such as Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool.

Back in November 2024, Leao was criticised by former Milan defender Alessandro Costacurta for only turning up in big matches.

To which Leao replied: "Clearly I do not agree with that.

"I have been having a great season at Milan but, like everyone else, there are ups and downs. The campaign has only just started. Look, I know that I am not the perfect player and sometimes I can do much better.

"I am not shaken by this criticism, I have people who help me to improve and those are the ones I have to listen to. This criticism just spurs me on to respond on the pitch."

Milan are back in action this weekend when they take on local rivals Inter at the San Siro on Sunday afternoon.