Gianluca Di Marzio, a transfer market expert, had this to say on his official website about Milan’s transfer plans and their strategy should Leao leave the club, with the player now close to departing for either Galatasaray or Aston Villa:
“Milan and Leao are about to part ways, with it still to be decided whether his destination will be Turkey or Aston Villa. Galatasaray reached a verbal agreement with Milan yesterday, although there is now the issue of bank guarantees. Regardless of that, the player has not yet accepted the move, despite an offer worth €10 million plus €2 million in bonuses, which is certainly a very significant proposal. Aston Villa have reached €42 million plus €3 million in bonuses, with the English club making very important offers to Milan and being willing to increase their proposal. The Villains have offered the player around €7 million net per season. Leao is now deciding which of the two options to pursue.
"As things stand, Milan do not appear to be planning to replace Leao. This is not because they are unwilling to spend, with Cardinale having shown that he does not hesitate to invest. There is also Cisse, who is doing extremely well. Credit must go to Amorim for having the courage to give him an opportunity despite his young age.”
