Leao is back in the spotlight for issues related to the transfer market. Nine goals in the league do not save a season that has once again been inconsistent and less brilliant compared to the standards he had accustomed the entire Milan world to. But the tension around the Rossoneri number 10 erupted after the match against Lazio, with the player himself igniting the spark with an exaggerated and theatrical reaction when substituted.
Yesterday, Rafa apologized to Allegri and the team, aware that his gesture, while not serious, caused some additional problems during an already complex period. The handshake with Pulisic has already put an end to a controversy that had even stirred social media.
Allegri worked hard last summer to change AC Milan's mentality. The first goal, as he repeatedly emphasized, was to create a solid, cohesive group fully aware that behavioral rules must be strictly respected. This work has delivered the expected results, as today Leao's reaction is the only incident that clashes with this new approach. Avoidable, certainly, but not decisive.
The second goal was to solve the defensive issues that have plagued the team and affected their standings over the last two seasons. To that end, he implemented a low block, a three-man defense, freeing Modric and designing a two-man attack where Leao could only fit as the main striker. Rafa accepted the challenge without hesitation, and this willingness helped create a solid foundation in the relationship between the head coach and the squad's most representative player, at least in terms of status.
At the end-of-January meeting with Tare and Furlani, Allegri expressed his support for renewing Leao's contract until 2031, and this stance became increasingly clear in the following weeks, until this recent phase of tension emerged, writes Calcio Mercato.
What are the difficulties?
The negotiations for Leao's renewal, after initial discussions between the player and Tare, entered the operational phase in mid-January. Both sides share the desire to continue together to consolidate a core of high-level players committed to the Rossoneri colors, similar to what was done with Maignan and Saelemakers.
All smooth sailing? Yes, but only to a point, because two major obstacles remain in advancing the negotiations: the player's salary and the release clause. Regarding the first, Milan intends to confirm the current agreement of 5 million plus 2 in bonuses, while the player's camp expects an increase.
What is changing?
At Milan, no one is considered untouchable, this is a refrain Milan fans have heard often in recent years. Leao's renewal does not automatically rule out a departure at the end of the season; it will depend on offers and what the market presents in terms of opportunities. Currently, according to whispers around Casa Milan, the club has entered a period of reflection because the recent incidents involving Leao have not yet been fully absorbed: a few late breakfasts, some less-than-perfect training sessions, and then the outburst at the Olimpico.
Allegri wants a top-class number 9 to pair with Leao, not to replace him; his idea has not changed even over this turbulent last month. Max will be a key figure in the next summer transfer window, and his judgment will be decisive, even regarding Leao.
