Why Barcelona are being linked with seemingly impossible Rafael Leao signing

Barcelona are still trying to sign a left winger this summer after missing out on Nico Williams, and being priced out of a deal for Luis Diaz. The latest to be linked to the Blaugrana is AC Milan forward Rafael Leao.

Several sources in Spain have said that Barcelona have been in contact with agent Jorge Mendes about a deal. The Portuguese would be a key factor in any negotiations, and El Chiringuito have stated a deal could be agreed around €90m, and Mendes’ presence opens the door to Barcelona. Leao is reportedly open to the move.

This does not tally with the information coming out of Italy, where it has been said that Milan will only accept his €175m release clause. MD are one of the sources that reported on Sporting Director Deco sounding out a move, and they explain that the reason behind their interest in Leao is not strictly down to needs in the squad.

Barcelona want Pablo Torre to stay even though he didn't participate in the Valencia game. @bonagerman

— barcacentre (@barcacentre) August 20, 2024

As was the case with Williams, President Joan Laporta is keen to bring in a star signing this summer to excite the fans, in order to ensure there are good attendances at both Montjuic and then the reduced capacity Camp Nou. It is also a response to Real Madrid signing Kylian Mbappe, and apparently, Dani Olmo does not fit the bill as a star signing.

Cynics may suggest it is part of a smoke and mirrors game to distract from Barcelona’s dire financial situation, where once again they are struggling to register players with the season already underway. It has been a key part of Laporta’s strategy since he arrived at Barcelona though, but these days the finances to make those attention-grabbing additions are not always there.