Arsenal were sent a fresh transfer message by Rafael Leao on Tuesday evening as the Portuguese winger starred in AC Milan's Champions League quarter-final at Napoli.
Milan sealed their progression to the last four at the expense of the Serie A leaders with a 1-1 draw in Naples after last week's 1-0 first leg victory at the San Siro. With Milan happy to sit deep, soak up pressure and hit Napoli on the counter attack, much of the onus was on Leao to provide the outlet for his side.
And the Portugal international more than delivered on that front, winning man of the match, which in the main was down to his involvement for Milan's goal. Leao's assist will arguably go down as one of the best in the competition's history, as he picked up the ball in his own half, dribbled past a number of Napoli challenges, before having the composure to put it on a plate for Olivier Giroud to tap home.
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With Arsenal set to be in the market for a new wing forward in the summer to complement the likes of Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah, this display on the biggest stage by Leao is another reason why he should be top of the list. The Gunners are going to need some excellent squad depth next season as they make their return to the Champions League, and are among a host of sides to have been linked with a move.
Despite talks having been ongoing for a number of months now, Leao is yet to agree a new deal at the San Siro with his current contract set to expire in the summer of 2024. The 23-year-old has previously admitted he would like to experience a new league in the future, even earmarking Arsenal as one of his favourite teams to watch.
“Experience in a new league? Yes, in the future… but now I’m 100% focused on AC Milan — it’s a top club and I’m under contract there. I like the city too. I watch many games. This year, I like Arsenal — they’re playing very well."
That said, Leao was again pressed on his future after last night's Champions League triumph and made it clear his priority is to sign a new deal at Milan, which would make a move this summer very difficult.
“I want to stay here at Milan, yes — but there are some things to resolve. I’m still under contract for one more year, we’re in talks”, told Sky. “I feel at home at AC Milan. I’m so, so happy to be here."
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