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Aston Villa open talks with AC Milan over Rafael Leão move
Aston Villa have opened direct talks with AC Milan over Rafael Leão, with the Portugal forward understood to be open to a Premier League move as uncertainty continues over Ollie Watkins’ future.
Aston Villa have opened talks with AC Milan over a move for Rafael Leão, with the Portugal international receptive to joining Unai Emery’s side as Villa accelerate plans to reshape their attack.
Sky in Italy reports that Villa and Milan are now in direct contact after an approach for the 27-year-old, although the clubs have yet to agree a fee. Leão has indicated that he is open to the move, with Villa’s return to the Champions League strengthening the appeal of a switch to the Premier League.
The negotiations represent a significant move from Villa at a time of growing uncertainty around Ollie Watkins.
Al Hilal have been in talks over the England striker and have already had at least one offer rejected, according to Sky Sports News. Watkins was then omitted from Villa’s squad for Sunday’s 4-0 defeat at Brighton, intensifying questions over whether he will remain at the club beyond the September 1 deadline.
Asked after the game why Watkins had not been involved, Emery told Sky Sports: “Ask him. I only can answer it by silence.”
Leão would give Villa a markedly different attacking profile. Capable of operating from the left or through central areas, his pace and ability to carry the ball would add another high-level one-on-one threat to a squad that has undergone substantial change during the summer.
Milan retain a strong negotiating position. Leão is under contract at San Siro until June 2028, and there is no confirmed asking price or agreement over the structure of a potential transfer at this stage.
The Portugal forward has spent seven seasons with Milan since arriving in 2019. Despite an injury-disrupted 2025/26 campaign, he still finished the season with 10 goals in all competitions and has made close to 300 appearances for the club.
Villa’s interest has therefore moved beyond an exploratory link, but the decisive stage is still ahead: Milan and Villa must find an agreement on valuation and terms before Leão can become the latest major piece of Emery’s rebuilt squad.