Bayern Munich, Arsenal, and Liverpool are among the clubs circling Rafael Leao, AC Milan’s winger, as they weigh up their summer transfer plans. While all three admire the Portuguese international, their decisions may hinge on other targets in play.
Leao has been a consistent performer for Milan since arriving from Lille in 2019, hitting double digits in goals across all competitions for the past four seasons. While not always lethal in front of goal, his creativity stood out with eight Serie A assists last campaign and nine the year before.
Barcelona’s pursuit of Nico Williams has added another layer of intrigue. The Spaniard’s wage demands, reportedly around €380,000 weekly, are high and could deter some suitors despite his €64 million release clause. Bayern and Arsenal both admire him, but if Barcelona meet the demands, their focus may shift.
Liverpool and Bayern are also monitoring PSG’s Bradley Barcola. Although the 22-year-old didn’t start the Champions League final against Inter, his potential remains undeniable. However, PSG coach Luis Enrique sees him as untouchable this summer. Whether a major bid could test PSG’s resolve is uncertain.
The transfer dynamics could change rapidly, depending on who secures whom. If Bayern or Arsenal manage to land Williams, it could free up Leao for another club. Conversely, missing out on one winger may accelerate moves for the others.
Liverpool’s stance on Luis Diaz is also shaping the market. Barcelona are interested in the Colombian, but Liverpool are firm—bids below €60 million are off the table. If Barca succeed in luring Diaz, Williams may no longer be an option for them, which could leave the door open for Liverpool to swoop in.
Ultimately, the futures of Leao, Barcola, and Williams are interlinked. Clubs who fall short on their top targets are poised to shift focus quickly, setting off a potential domino effect across Europe’s elite teams.