Rafael Leao under scrutiny as AC Milan weigh future amid transfer uncertainty

Rafael Leao’s future at AC Milan is increasingly uncertain, with the club reportedly open to offers as doubts grow over his long term role under Massimiliano Allegri. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Portuguese forward remains a decisive yet divisive figure, capable of moments of brilliance but struggling to fully convince in his current position.

The 25 year old once again highlighted that contrast during the win over Verona, producing the key assist for Adrien Rabiot that secured all three points. It was the standout moment of the match, yet it did not prevent Allegri from substituting him just after the hour mark, a decision that surprised the player himself.

After the match, Leao sought clarification from his coach, only for Allegri to respond with a light hearted remark that hinted at tactical reasoning. His replacement, Santiago Gimenez, failed to make a notable impact, raising further questions about why the Portuguese forward continues to be the one sacrificed.

Struggles in an unfamiliar role

Much of the debate surrounding Leao stems from his adaptation to a central attacking role in Allegri’s 3 5 2 system. While he remains the club’s top scorer in Serie A with nine goals, his performances as a traditional striker have drawn mixed reviews.

La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Leao has been dealing with persistent pubalgia for months, which has limited his physical condition despite his regular appearances. He has featured in almost every match in the second half of the season, often playing through discomfort.

However, his last league goal came on March 1 against Cremonese, and his recent displays have not always met expectations. During the match against Udinese at San Siro, sections of the crowd voiced their frustration, underlining how polarising his performances have become.

While Leao is still considered one of the few players capable of deciding games with individual brilliance alongside Christian Pulisic, concerns remain over his defensive contribution and his ability to lead the line effectively. His struggles to hold up play and compete physically with central defenders have fuelled doubts about his suitability as a number nine.

Transfer doubts and World Cup factor

These uncertainties have inevitably led to questions about his future. Although Leao is under contract until 2028, La Gazzetta dello Sport suggests that AC Milan no longer view him as untouchable, and the player himself could be open to a move for the first time.

Interest has been linked to Barcelona, particularly as the Spanish side assess their attacking options. However, no concrete offers have emerged, and any potential transfer would depend heavily on valuation.

The situation could evolve after the upcoming World Cup, where Leao is expected to play a key role for Portugal. A strong tournament could significantly increase his market value and attract serious interest from Europe’s top clubs.

Financially, AC Milan would be in a strong position to benefit from a sale. With a relatively low remaining book value, any significant transfer fee would represent a major capital gain, potentially allowing the club to reinvest in a specialist centre forward better suited to Allegri’s system.

For now, the situation remains unresolved. If Leao stays, he is likely to continue in a central role, but unless performances improve, both player and club may soon decide that a separation is the best path forward.