Liverpool is reportedly keeping a close eye on Rafael Leao’s situation at AC Milan after reports in Italy suggested he was coming under Jurgen Klopp’s transfer radar.
In recent seasons, the Reds have spent a lot of money to improve their offense. After paying £40 million for Diogo Jota in striking a gold deal in the summer of 2020, they have since signed Luis Diaz (£54 million) and Darwin Nunez (£85.5 million).
Furthermore, star player Mohamed Salah recently signed a new three-year contract extension with the Reds. That comes at a cost, however, as the Egyptian king is said to earn £350,000 per week at Anfield.
As such, it comes as a surprise to see the Reds linked with another big-name attacker in Leao.
That’s according to Calciomercato, who claims the Reds are one of several sides keeping a close watch on the 23-year-old.
Indeed, they claim the Reds are huge admirers of the player and are keeping a close watch on his situation at the San Siro.
However, Liverpool is far from alone with fellow suitors Chelsea, Manchester City, and PSG also keen. A recent report also claimed Manchester United was planning a huge approach for the Portuguese star.
Leao has established himself as one of the leading players in Serie A in recent seasons. To that end, he proved their leading light as Milan ended a 10-year wait to win the Scudetto in 2021/22.
And his magnificent form has continued this with Leao boasting four goals and eight assists in 13 appearances so far this season.
As such, it’s little surprise to see AC Milan doing all in their power to try and persuade Leao to stay.
They are currently holding talks with his agent, Jorge Mendes, over a new deal at the San Siro. Among the subjects of discussion around the renewal, talks will be the player’s release clause.
That figure is currently set at just over £130 million, but Milan is looking to raise it as they fear he will be poached away. Mendes, on the other hand, is said to be concerned that the exit clause will rise further.
While the player is pleased with the Rossoneri and eager to sign a new contract, raising the exit clause could be a stumbling block.
