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Arsenal preparing formal offer to sign Rafael Leao

By on March 18, 2026

Arsenal are preparing an audacious formal offer to sign AC Milan winger Rafael Leão next summer, according to Fichajes.

Leão has established himself as one of Europe’s standout forwards since joining AC Milan from Lille in 2019.

After failing to reach double figures in each of his first two seasons, he exploded into form during the 2021–22 campaign, registering 14 goals and 12 assists as the Rossoneri secured their 19th Scudetto, with the winger also claiming the league’s Most Valuable Player award.

While the club have not consistently matched that level since, the Portuguese international has maintained a high standard, continuing as a central figure and contributing to their 2024–25 Supercoppa Italiana triumph.

On the international stage, he remains a vital presence for Portugal, playing a key role in their UEFA Nations League success last year and contributing significantly during their World Cup qualification campaign.

Having surpassed 260 appearances and recorded 144 goal involvements, including 12 this season, the 26-year-old has accumulated significant top-flight experience, inevitably drawing attention from several top clubs, including Arsenal.

This is according to Fichajes, which claims that Arsenal are looking to make a statement signing in the summer and view Leão’s qualities as a viable option to improve Mikel Arteta’s squad should Gabriel Martinelli depart next season.

It appears the Gunners are accelerating their efforts to sign the winger, as the report adds that the Premier League leaders are preparing a formal £69m offer for the possible transfer of the Portuguese to the Emirates Stadium next summer.

Milan could ‘seriously consider’ Arsenal’s offer

In a boost to Arsenal, the Spanish outlet reports that Leão’s recent fallout with Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri has softened the club’s stance on his departure, and the club are willing to ‘seriously consider’ Arsenal’s £69m offer.

Arteta has Leandro Trossard, Gabriel Martinelli, and the versatile Noni Madueke as left-wing options. Still, none possess the world-class qualities of Leão, who finished 14th in his last Ballon d’Or nomination.

With the report indicating the possibility of Martinelli’s departure, Leão would be a viable option to replace the Brazilian international should he depart the Emirates.

While the Portuguese would be a strong weapon in delivering the versatility and unpredictability Arteta aims for at the Emirates Stadium, concerns persist about his work rate and off-the-ball ability, which have been the subject of constant questioning and scrutiny over the years.

Arsenal return to Premier League action this weekend when they host second-placed Manchester City and could solidify their title claim with a win against the eight-time champions.