La Liga title hopefuls Barcelona have rekindled their interest in Rafael Leao amid the winger’s fallout with Milan boss Paulo Fonseca. However, according to Calciomercato, the feasibility study shows the Catalan powerhouse cannot afford the ex-Lille forward unless they sacrifice at least one first-team stalwart.
Leao’s future at Milan is hanging by a thread. At loggerheads with Fonseca, the 25-year-old has failed to make the starting line-up in three consecutive Serie A games. Seemingly frustrated with his wobble at Stadio San Siro, the Portugal international could depart the Rossoneri already in the winter.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta holds the Milan superstar in high esteem. Given Barca’s renaissance under Hansi Flick, there’s no doubt Leao wouldn’t have to think much if an offer arrived. But, the financial aspect could throw a spanner in the works.
Leao ears around €7 million net per season at Milan. Considering Spain’s tax laws, Barcelona would likely need to allocate nearly €14m for Leao’s annual wages. However, Flick’s men already boast several highest-paid players in La Liga, starting with talismanic striker Robert Lewandowski.
Lewandowski’s €33m salary is unmatched in Spain’s top flight. In addition to the Polish ace, Frenkie de Jong (€19.5m), Ansu Fati (€14m), Jules Kounde (€13.5m), and Raphinha (€12.5m) are among La Liga’s top-20 best-paid players.
That means Barcelona must make at least one high-profile sale before they can start considering Leao a realistic target. Meanwhile, the Portuguese winger’s situation at Milan isn’t getting any better. As things stand, it could soon likely be ‘him or Fonseca.’
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