Aston Villa misses out: Rafael Leão set to join Galatasaray
Reports from Europe indicate that while Emery sought a loan deal for the Portuguese star, Galatasaray secured his signature with a 43 million euro offer. The player is scheduled for medical tests at the end of the week before finalizing the move.
Rafael Leão is embarking on a new and surprising chapter in his career. Reports from Italy and Germany on Friday confirm that the AC Milan star has chosen to move to Galatasaray, which has reached a full agreement with the Rossoneri and finalized personal terms with the Portuguese international.
According to Italian media, Leão ultimately preferred the Turkish offer over that of Aston Villa. Florian Plettenberg reported that the deal is closed, with all parties in full agreement. Under the terms, Galatasaray will pay 43 million euros guaranteed, plus two million euros in bonuses, with Milan retaining a 20 percent sell-on clause.
In recent days, it was widely expected that Leão was leaning toward a move to the Premier League, but Aston Villa failed to reach the necessary terms with the Italian club. The English side proposed a loan deal with an obligation to buy at the end of the season, whereas Galatasaray offered an immediate permanent transfer.
Salary also played a pivotal role in the player's decision. Reports suggest that Villa offered him seven million euros per season, while in Istanbul he is set to earn approximately ten million euros annually, including bonuses.
Milan initially demanded 50 million euros plus ten million in bonuses for Leão, but later softened their stance after both parties concluded it was time to part ways. The winger is expected to fly for medical examinations at the end of the week ahead of the official signing.
