Rafa Leão transfer talks have intensified as Galatasaray agree a €45m deal with AC Milan while Aston Villa push to sign the Portugal winger

Rafael Leão, AC Milan’s 27-year-old Portugal international, is facing a decisive choice over his future as Galatasaray and Aston Villa compete for his signature on Thursday, August 27, 2026, with the Turkish club having reached a €45 million agreement plus add-ons with AC Milan.

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According to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, Galatasaray are now waiting for Leão’s decision after reaching the agreement with Milan.

The player can either accept the Turkish club’s proposal or wait for Aston Villa to make their position stronger.

“A decision up to Leão whether to accept or wait for Aston Villa,” Romano reported.

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has reportedly taken a direct role in the pursuit, making contact as the Premier League club attempts to convince Leão to choose a move to England.

Villa have already improved their proposal for the forward, with reports indicating an offer of €42 million plus €3 million in potential bonuses.

Another structure involving an €8 million loan with an obligation to buy for around €42 million has also been discussed.

The developing situation has placed the Rafa Leão transfer firmly in the spotlight during the final days of the summer window.

Leão has been linked with a departure from Milan throughout the summer after expressing interest in testing himself outside Serie A.

Aston Villa’s interest is particularly significant because the Premier League represents one of the destinations understood to appeal to the Portugal international.

Galatasaray, meanwhile, have pushed strongly to secure the winger and are understood to have made an attractive financial proposal. Earlier reports suggested that the Turkish champions were prepared to offer Leão a substantial salary package.

The forward’s situation at Milan has also added urgency to the negotiations. Leão recently returned to training after missing almost two weeks, but Milan continue to be open to a sale before the transfer deadline.

Leão joined Milan from Lille in 2019 and has developed into one of the club’s most recognisable attacking players.

His pace, dribbling ability and direct style have made him a valuable asset, while his performances helped Milan win the 2021/22 Serie A title.

The current contest therefore represents an important crossroads for both the player and Milan. Galatasaray have the advantage of an agreement with the Italian club, but Aston Villa’s late intervention has kept the transfer alive.

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With the window approaching its conclusion, Leão now holds the crucial decision. His choice could determine whether his next chapter begins in the Premier League or in the Turkish Süper Lig.