On their YouTube channel, Fabrizio Romano and Matteo Moretto revealed the latest developments in the negotiations between AC Milan and Aston Villa over Rafael Leao. Here is what they said.
Fabrizio Romano: "There are further confirmations that Aston Villa began working on the Rafa Leao operation today. The idea came from Mendes, who has an excellent relationship with Aston Villa. However, this idea also stems from another strong friendship, namely the one between Cardinale and Aston Villa’s owner. So, this is also a matter that involves the presidents of the two clubs. This is also why Fikayo Tomori’s name has emerged in connection with Aston Villa in recent days. He is not close to joining Aston Villa at the moment, but his name came up because he was also mentioned during the direct discussions between the two presidents," as relayed via Milannews.it.
Meanwhile, Matteo Moretto had this to say:
"There has been an initial direct approach between the clubs, and there is a strong friendship between the two presidents. As of today, there has not been any real contact between Aston Villa and those managing Rafael Leao’s interests. Leao is indeed open to the Premier League, but a potential move to Aston Villa has not yet been discussed. So, there is no Aston Villa-Leao negotiation at this stage, unlike the situation with Galatasaray and Leao, because the Turkish club contacted him and are willing to offer the player significant figures. The problem is that there is no agreement between the two clubs, because Milan are still asking for €50 million plus bonuses, which would take the total to around €60 million. Aston Villa could partially meet those demands, as in my opinion they could reach €50 million including bonuses.”
