Il Corriere dello Sport newspaper confirms yesterday's news and adds that negotiations for the renewal of Rafael Leao's contract have been ongoing for months, but in the recent period there have been steps forward and more optimism is filtering through.
The Portuguese player himself reportedly confessed in the dressing room that he is happy at Milan and does not want to leave, and that he is on the right track for renewal. Confirmation comes directly from Paolo Maldini, who before the Champions League clash with Napoli spoke of growing confidence in reaching an agreement. At this stage of the season, both the management and the player are focusing more on on-field events, but phone calls with those who manage Leao's affairs are frequent.
In fact, Paolo Maldini and Frederic Massara are in contact with the player's managers to overcome obstacles. AC Milan directors have reiterated that they will not get involved in the Sporting Lisbon legal dispute. The Portuguese club will have to be compensated 19 million euros by Rafael Leao and Lille, but the Rossoneri are only spectators in this matter.
Meanwhile, in addition to a renewal at 6.5 million plus bonuses, the player hopes to reach the Champions League semi-finals. Such achievement would be the highest in his career already in international competitions.
