Serie A winger has the perfect opportunity to impress Barcelona during Spain vs Portugal
Serie A winger has the perfect opportunity to impress Barcelona during Spain vs Portugal As reported by Mundo Deportivo , Rafael Leao will have one of the biggest stages of the summer when Portugal face Spain in the World Cup Round of 16, with renewed speculation linking the AC Milan forward to Barcelona. The Portuguese international has once again been mentioned as a potential target for the Catalan club, with reports claiming that the La Liga champions have recently enquired about his situation. Barcelona monitoring Leao Leao was already on Barcelona’s radar two summers ago when the club explored options to strengthen the left wing. Now, the team led by Hansi Flick have once again made contact to understand the conditions surrounding the 27-year-old’s future . Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League and several Saudi Pro League clubs are also said to be monitoring the winger. Back on Barcelona’s radar. (Photo by Leonardo Fernandez/Getty Images) New AC Milan head coach Ruben Amorim does not see his fellow Portuguese as part of his long-term plans, potentially opening the door to a transfer. A tough test against Spain Monday’s clash with Spain offers Leao an ideal opportunity to strengthen his reputation. Barcelona sporting director Deco is currently in the United States to watch several World Cup matches, making Portugal’s knockout fixture one of the games likely to attract his attention. After beginning the tournament on the bench throughout the group stage, Leao earned his first start against Croatia in the Round of 32, playing the full match and providing the assist for Goncalo Ramos’ stoppage-time winner. He continues to compete for a starting place with Pedro Neto and Joao Felix on Portugal’s left flank. If selected again, Leao is likely to face one of the tournament’s strongest right-sided combinations. Leao can make an impression on Barcelona when he faces Spain. (Photo by Charlotte Wilson/Getty Images) Pedro Porro appears set to start at right-back for Spain, while Lamine Yamal will operate ahead of him after emerging as the World Cup’s most successful dribbler. Leao has occasionally faced criticism for his defensive contribution, making this fixture an opportunity not only to showcase his attacking talent but also to answer questions about his work rate without the ball. Transfer still difficult Despite the reported interest from Barcelona, any deal remains financially challenging. AC Milan would value Leao at between €60 million and €70 million, a significant fee for Barcelona after already investing heavily in Anthony Gordon and continuing to prioritise a move for Julián Alvarez. However, there is also speculation that Milan could consider a loan with an obligation to buy , a structure that may prove more attractive for clubs interested in signing the Portuguese forward, including the Blaugrana .
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