Tottenham Hotspur remain determined to strengthen their attack before the transfer window closes, and there has been a new update on their interest in AC Milan winger Rafael Leao.
Roberto De Zerbi has already overseen a major squad rebuild this summer, but adding another elite wide forward remains one of the club’s biggest priorities.
Spurs have been heavily linked with Manchester City winger Savinho, while Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo also remains firmly on the club’s radar as they search for a player capable of adding pace, goals and creativity from the left flank.
Both players would bring Premier League experience with them to north London, however, one player who wouldn’t is Leao.
|
Rafael Leao’s best attributes |
|
|---|---|
|
Pace |
One of Europe’s quickest attackers, capable of beating defenders in open space and lightning quick on the counter-attack. |
|
Dribbling |
Excellent close control and one-v-one ability, regularly gliding past defenders with changes of pace and direction. |
|
Versatility |
Can play on either wing, as a centre-forward or supporting striker. |
|
Goalscoring threat |
Consistently contributes goals from the left by cutting inside onto his stronger right foot. |
|
Creativity |
Combines vision with quality crossing and final-ball delivery. |
|
Physicality |
At 6ft 2in, he combines strength with speed, making him difficult to knock off the ball. |
Rumours last month suggested that Spurs were in talks to sign Leao, but things have gone quiet since.
New update on Tottenham’s interest in Leao
According to The Athletic, Tottenham’s recruitment team did indeed hold contact with the Portugal international’s representatives before the World Cup.
However, as of now, Leao, compared to James Maddison by Football Transfers, is not currently considered an active transfer target for Spurs.
This could explain Spurs’ pursuit of Gakpo, but it shouldn’t necessarily mean they should walk away over a deal for Leao.
Recent reports have suggested that AC Milan would be prepared to listen to offers in the region of £42m, a figure that could represent excellent value for one of Europe’s most explosive wide forwards.
During his time at the San Siro, Leao has consistently delivered at the highest level in Italy, establishing himself as one of Serie A’s most dangerous attackers.
Last season, he registered 10 goals and three assists in 31 appearances across all competitions. His overall Milan record now stands at more than 80 goals and 65 assists, underlining his consistency over several seasons.
His attributes also appear tailor-made for Premier League football. Standing at 6ft 2, Leao combines exceptional pace with power and close control, making him almost impossible to stop once he gets into open space.
Comfortable driving past defenders on the outside or cutting inside to shoot, the 27-year-old appears to be reaching his prime, and he possesses exactly the type of explosive athleticism De Zerbi wants from his wide players.
While Savinho and Gakpo may currently sit higher on Tottenham’s shortlist, Leao’s situation at Milan could still be one to keep an eye on. If moves fail to materialise with City and Liverpool for Savinho and Gakpo, Spurs could return for the opportunity to sign a proven Champions League performer in Leao.