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Arsenal make enquiries to sign Rafael Leao

By on June 2, 2026

Arsenal have made enquiries over a deal to sign AC Milan winger Rafael Leão, according to Nicolo Schira.

Leão was not at his most prolific during the most recent campaign, managing 10 goals and three assists, a notable drop compared to the 25 goal contributions he recorded in 2023/24 and the 29 he produced in 2022/23.

Leão also came under scrutiny for both on-field and off-field incidents, falling out of favour with Paulo Fonseca and sections of the AC Milan fanbase, with supporters even booing him off during a match against Atalanta earlier in the season. He was jeered again following a disappointing 3-0 defeat to Udinese in April and also had a few tense exchanges with teammate Christian Pulisic.

The winger has now confirmed his openness to leaving the club this summer in search of a new challenge.

Speaking to Portuguese media, he said, ‘I’m proud, as I made history at AC Milan, but now I want a new chapter.’ I’m looking forward to playing in another league.’

As a result, he is set to become a subject of keen interest this summer, with several clubs, including Arsenal, now looking to sign him.

This is according to Nicolo Schira, who claims that the north London giants have made enquiries over a deal to sign the 26-year-old this summer.

Leao open to Premier League move

In a boost to the Gunners, the journalist adds that Leão is open to playing in the Premier League and is set to depart Milan when the transfer window opens.

While a formal offer has not been submitted, Arsenal will face a stern battle with English rivals Manchester United in the race for the Portugal international, Schira adds.

Mikel Arteta currently has Leandro Trossard, Gabriel Martinelli, and the adaptable Noni Madueke as options on the left flank. However, none are considered to possess the elite, world-class level associated with Rafael Leão, who finished 14th in his most recent Ballon d’Or ranking.

With reports suggesting that either Trossard or Martinelli could leave Arsenal, Leão, valued at £43m by Transfermarkt, could be a realistic replacement option.

While the Portuguese forward would provide the kind of unpredictability and attacking versatility Arteta seeks at the Emirates Stadium, questions remain about his work rate and defensive contribution, which have long been debated and scrutinised.