In the last summer transfer window, one of the areas FC Barcelona was most interested in strengthening was the left wing. The Blaugranes were linked with Athletic Club winger Nico Williams throughout the summer, but this move ultimately did not materialize, as the Spaniard decided to stay at the Basque club for another season.
But this failure has not been felt too much in the Barcelona team, as Raphinha has been playing at a very high level since the start of this season. Still, Barcelona are looking to incorporate another high-profile winger in their squad in the coming months, as they believe more depth is needed in this position.
For this purpose, one of the names they have been linked with recently is that of the AC Milan forward, Rafael Leao. As already reported, the Portuguese winger is not getting too well with his new coach, Paulo Fonseca, who does not have Leao as an automatic starter anymore, especially because of his lack of defensive contribution.
As a result, SPORT reports that the winger is fed up with his situation at the Italian club, and will be open to leaving the club even on a loan in January.
Both Joan Laporta and Deco are reportedly impressed with the €75m-rated Portuguese winger, and they believe he is a differential player. However, his high price can be a significant barrier for the Catalans, and his transfer fee and wages both remain out of the Blaugrana club’s budget at this point in time.
However, one factor that can facilitate Leao’s potential move to Barcelona is the Portuguese agent, Jorge Mendes. Although he does not currently represent the winger, Mendes has very good relations with the player and remains abreast of the latest developments taking place with him at Milan.
The Portuguese agent’s good relationship with Joan Laporta and Deco can help Barcelona in this operation if they decide to embark on such a journey.
