Leao leaves Milan after seven years: Galatasaray covers him with gold, the Rossoneri 45 million and 20% on resale

Rafael Leao expressed deep emotions after his final appearance at San Siro with AC Milan, acknowledging the bittersweet nature of leaving the club he had called home for seven years. The Portuguese forward confirmed his departure ahead of the match against Venezia, which saw him play his last game for the Italian giants before joining Turkish side Galatasaray. The transfer, valued at €43 million, includes a fixed sum and additional bonuses, while Milan will retain a 20% share of future resale proceeds. Leao’s new contract with Galatasaray runs until 2030 and reportedly includes a salary of €10 million annually plus performance-based incentives. The emotional farewell came after a long and complex journey for Leao, who has been linked with several clubs over the past months. Initially, the Premier League was his preferred destination, with Aston Villa showing interest. However, the English club's offer did not meet Leao’s expectations, both financially and in terms of career progression. This allowed Galatasaray to step in with a more attractive proposal, ultimately securing the player’s signature. The move marks a significant shift for Leao, who will reunite with former teammate Victor Osimhen in Turkey. Leao reflected on his time at Milan during a press conference following the match against Venezia. He spoke of the challenges and triumphs he experienced during his tenure, including the 2022 Scudetto win, which he described as the most memorable achievement. Despite the success, there were moments of difficulty, such as periods of inconsistency and criticism from fans. Nevertheless, he emphasized the gratitude he felt towards the club, its supporters, and the teammates who helped shape his career. The decision to leave Milan was not made lightly, according to Leao. He acknowledged the difficult choice involved, noting that the club had reached a high level under coach Paulo Fonseca and had ambitions for further success. While expressing his disappointment at not being able to say goodbye in a different manner, he affirmed his enduring love for Milan and the memories created during his time there. His comments highlighted the emotional weight of the transition, even as he looked forward to the opportunities ahead in Turkey. The financial aspects of the transfer have drawn attention, with Milan receiving €45 million overall, €43 million upfront and an additional €2 million in bonuses. The club retains a stake in any future sales, ensuring continued revenue from Leao’s career. For the player, the deal represents a substantial increase compared to previous offers, particularly from Aston Villa, which had proposed around €7.5 million annually. The disparity in financial incentives played a crucial role in Leao’s decision-making process. Leao’s departure leaves a void in Milan’s attacking lineup, especially considering his role in key matches and his ability to influence games with his pace and technical skills. His absence will be keenly felt, particularly in upcoming fixtures, including potential encounters with Aston Villa in the Champions League. The club must now focus on strengthening its squad to maintain its competitive edge in both domestic and European competitions. As Leao prepares to begin his new chapter with Galatasaray, the focus shifts to the logistics of completing the transfer. Formalities remain to be finalized, although the agreement appears largely settled. Meanwhile, Milan looks to address the immediate impact of losing one of its standout players, seeking replacements or reinforcements to sustain their momentum. The coming weeks will be critical for both clubs as they navigate this transition.