Tottenham have reportedly been given the chance to sign AC Milan’s Rafael Leao this summer, though the club have yet to decide whether to move for him. Italian journalist Daniele Longo reports that Leao’s camp are shopping him around as they weigh up his next destination, with Spurs among the clubs to have been approached.
The 27-year-old Portugal international endured a disappointing campaign in Milan colours, managing just 10 goals and three assists across 31 appearances last season. Even so, he remains in demand, with Aston Villa and Galatasaray also credited with interest — Villa reportedly already tabling a bid and in talks over personal terms, while Leao’s representatives keep their options open and have circled back to Tottenham.
Spurs have already spent heavily this summer, committing around £237 million to bolster their defence and midfield, and attention has now turned to the forward line. They’ve already brought in two Manchester City attackers — Savinho for an initial £75 million, with Omar Marmoush set to follow on a loan-to-buy deal.
Leao could slot into that rebuilt attack neatly. With Savinho tipped for the right and Marmoush through the middle, the left-wing slot looks up for grabs, especially with Xavi Simons still working his way back from an ACL injury — a gap Leao could fill. According to Longo, his side first floated the move to Tottenham back in mid-July before renewing contact this week, though Spurs have yet to follow up formally, leaving the door open.
Defensively, Leao has had his critics, but going forward he’d offer something different to what Spurs already have. Where Savinho brings flair and creativity and Marmoush is prized for his finishing, Leao blends elements of both, though he tends to favour running at defenders and creating his own chances over setting up teammates. On his day, he’s a top-class dribbler and carrier capable of turning games in the final third — a trait Tottenham are currently light on.
Bringing in both Leao and Savinho would hand Spurs a serious injection of pace, directness and one-on-one quality out wide. Portugal great Nani, a longtime admirer, has previously called his compatriot a genuinely world-class talent. With Leao now said to be up for grabs, it’s up to Tottenham to decide whether this is an opportunity worth taking.
