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Amid the rapid movements of Europe’s top clubs in the summer transfer market, Barcelona appears to be preparing an unexpected deal that could reshape the competition for the new season and directly impact the plans of one of Real Madrid’s most prominent stars.

The potential deal is not merely about a strong attacking addition; it may also carry deeper implications for the ongoing “psychological war” between the two Spanish giants—especially since the player linked to the transfer has a close personal relationship with one of the game’s legends.

The name of Portuguese star Rafael Leão, AC Milan winger and friend of Cristiano Ronaldo, has emerged strongly within Barcelona’s ranks as a strategic option to strengthen the left side of the attack. Coach Hansi Flick is seeking to refresh the squad with players who combine skill, speed, and decisiveness.

According to Spanish press reports, AC Milan has set an initial price tag of €70 million for Leão, who has hinted at his desire to experience a new challenge outside the Italian league this summer.

This development follows the breakdown in negotiations to sign Spanish star Nico Williams from Athletic Bilbao, who chose to extend his contract with his current club—prompting Barcelona’s management to reassess its attacking options.

Rafael Leão, whose contract with Milan runs until the summer of 2028, had a strong 2024–25 season, appearing in 34 matches, scoring 8 goals, and providing 8 assists—making him one of the most balanced players in terms of finishing and teamwork.

Some sources have suggested that the signing of Leão could also be interpreted as an indirect message to Real Madrid and Kylian Mbappé, amid the ongoing competition between the two clubs for world-class players and emerging attacking talents.

If completed, the deal would represent one of Barcelona’s most notable moves this summer—combining high technical value with symbolic significance, given the player’s connection to a star like Cristiano Ronaldo, which lends the transfer both psychological and tactical weight.