Rafael Leao Leaves AC Milan After Seven Years for Galatasaray Move

Rafael Leao had become a key figure at AC Milan, spending seven years with the club and making a significant impact with 80 goals and 65 assists, according to in.gr. As the summer transfer window opened, speculation grew about his future. Several clubs, including Aston Villa, showed interest, but Milan's high valuation made negotiations complex.

Initial reports from ESPN FC and BirGün suggested Leao's future at Milan was uncertain, with Milan seeking a substantial transfer fee. Galatasaray emerged as a leading contender after other clubs, such as Aston Villa, stepped back from talks.

By late August, the situation accelerated. On August 27, Italian and Turkish outlets reported that both Galatasaray and Aston Villa had made offers for Leao, and Milan had accepted them, according to Fanpage. However, the following day, ANSA.it confirmed that Leao had chosen Galatasaray, turning down the English club's proposal.

Leao bid an emotional farewell to Milan, expressing sadness for not being able to say goodbye to fans at San Siro after a recent match, as reported by Notícias ao Minuto. He thanked his teammates and reflected on his time at the club, saying he would have preferred a different farewell.

On August 29, Leao arrived in Istanbul, where he was greeted by fans at Atatürk Airport. Anadolu Ajansı and Fanpage described the enthusiastic welcome and the traditional celebration that marked his introduction to Turkish football.

The transfer was finalized on August 30. Galatasaray announced that Leao had signed a four-year contract, with the transfer fee reported between €38 million and over €45 million by different outlets. His salary was set at €10 million per year, and Milan retained a 20 percent resale clause, according to NewsIt.gr.

Rafael Leao is now officially a Galatasaray player. The club confirmed the signing and presented him as their new star ahead of the upcoming league and Champions League matches. Leao has publicly stated his commitment to helping Galatasaray chase its 27th league title and fifth consecutive championship, Anadolu Ajansı reported.

For Milan, the transfer marks the end of an era with one of their most prolific forwards, while Galatasaray secures a high-profile addition to strengthen their squad for domestic and European competition.

Attention will now turn to how quickly Leao adapts to his new team and Turkish football. His performance in the Champions League with Galatasaray will be closely monitored, especially as the club aims to make a deep run in Europe. Milan, meanwhile, will look to rebuild their attack following Leao's departure.