Aston Villa have opened initial talks with AC Milan over a potential move for Rafael Leao. Unai Emery is looking to strengthen his attack after Ollie Watkins pushed for a move to Al Hilal.
Milan are holding firm on a €60 million valuation comprising €50 million upfront plus €10 million in performance-based add-ons.
Leao has expressed openness to a move to the Premier League but has not yet received an official approach from Villa.
Matteo Moretto reports that the deal remains in its early stages. The Portuguese international has seen his role reduced under Milan head coach Ruben Amorim and could see a move to Villa as an opportunity for a fresh start.
However, Milan's asking price could make a deal difficult.
Ollie Watkins' Al Hilal Interest Pushes Aston Villa to Explore Rafael Leao Move
Watkins' absence from Villa's squad for the Brighton match added to uncertainty over his future. The striker did not travel with the team and later apologised to his teammates when he returned to training.
Asked about Watkins' omission, Emery told Sky Sports: “Ask him. I only can answer it by silence.”
His comments added to speculation over Watkins' future and strengthened the case for Villa to explore further attacking options.
With uncertainty surrounding Watkins' future, Villa have begun exploring potential alternatives in attack. The Athletic reports that Villa still see Watkins as an important part of Emery's system, but his desire to leave has led the club to consider options such as Leao and Crystal Palace's Jean-Philippe Mateta.
Villa want to avoid being left short of forwards if Watkins departs. The club have also lost several important players this summer, Youri Tielemans, Morgan Rogers, Lucas Digne and Ezri Konsa, while Emiliano Buendia and Ross Barkley were used in attacking roles against Brighton.
The Villans need another forward before the transfer window closes. Leao scored nine Serie A goals last season and could provide another option in attack.
Milan Set €60m Asking Price for Rafael Leao
The Rossoneri are in a strong negotiating position because Leao's contract runs until 2028. The club want €50 million guaranteed plus a further €10 million in bonuses.
Milan believe Leao could command a higher fee than the €35 million reportedly offered by Galatasaray, who have been pursuing the winger for several weeks and have offered him a five-year contract worth €12 million net per season.
Leao's price tag would make him one of the most expensive forwards available this summer, raising doubts over whether Villa are willing to meet Milan's demands after rejecting a £45 million offer for Watkins.
Sportmediaset reports that Milan would consider further talks if a suitable offer arrives before the transfer window closes. The club could then use the money to strengthen other areas of the squad, particularly defence and midfield.
What Happens Next in Aston Villa's Rafael Leao Pursuit?
Villa now has to decide whether to make a formal move for Leao. The player's openness to joining a Premier League club could help the deal, but no agreement has been reached.
Di Marzio reports that Villa and Milan are in contact and are expected to discuss the deal before the 1 September deadline.
With the deadline approaching, the clubs would need to bridge the gap on the valuation and payment structure before any deal could progress.
