Rafael Leao's transfer saga is set to intensify on Monday, 3 August, when Fenerbahçe will submit a new official offer to AC Milan in an attempt to bring the Portuguese star to Turkey. Leao has long been considered on the way out at the Rossoneri, with both sides eager to part ways.
The new proposal is expected to come much closer to Milan's asking price, but there remains another significant obstacle: the former Lille winger is still not convinced by the destination.
Milan lower their demands
Milan have continued to value Leao at €60 million, but with the transfer market proving relatively quiet at that price, the club has confirmed it would also be willing to accept around €50 million to sanction his departure, writes Calcio Mercato.
Fenerbahçe, who initially proposed a loan deal with a €40 million option to buy, are now expected to submit an improved bid worth €45-46 million as a permanent transfer. The offer would come very close to Milan's acceptable valuation, with a few performance-related bonuses potentially enough to bridge the remaining gap.
Leao remains unconvinced
The Turkish club have already presented Jorge Mendes with a contract offer for Leao worth €8 million per season plus €2 million in bonuses over four years. It is a highly lucrative proposal, significantly higher than the salary he currently earns at Milan, but the Portuguese international has yet to accept it.
The hesitation is not primarily financial but sporting. Leao remains unconvinced about moving to Fenerbahçe because the club have not yet secured qualification for next season's UEFA Champions League. The competition is considered essential by the winger if he is to accept a move to the Turkish league.
At present, only Galatasaray, who have already secured their place in the Champions League, fully match the former Lille player's sporting ambitions.
