Deco unconvinced by Rafael Leao after inconsistent season at Milan - reports
Barcelona are expected to make limited moves in the upcoming summer transfer window, but one position they are actively looking to strengthen is the left wing. According to MARCA, Sporting Director Deco has identified the need for a player to ease the workload on Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, after a season that saw the team overly reliant on the duo.
One name that has once again emerged as a serious target is Rafael Leao. The AC Milan forward has long been admired by president Joan Laporta, and his name regularly resurfaces during visits from Jorge Mendes, who, while not officially Leao’s agent, has shown interest in pushing for a move to Camp Nou.
Despite the mutual interest, Deco is said to have reservations about the player. The 25-year-old Portugal international has faced several inconsistencies throughout the season at Milan, raising concerns within the Barcelona camp. Nonetheless, Leao remains a top candidate should the market conditions prove favourable.
His market value is currently estimated at around €75m, but sources close to the situation suggest Mendes would seek a significantly higher fee in any potential deal. With Financial Fair Play constraints still limiting Barcelona’s ability to spend freely, such a transfer would depend heavily on player sales and salary adjustments.
Other names under consideration reportedly include Alexander Isak, Luis Diaz and Marcus Rashford, but Leao remains one of the more realistic high-profile targets if Barcelona are able to move quickly in the market.
