Stefano Pioli has indicated that the ‘incredible’ Rafael Leao will stay and fulfil his potential at AC Milan despite reports suggesting he is a target for Wolverhampton Wanderers, speaking to Football Italia.
With one of the most exciting prospects in Portuguese football appearing in the gossip columns, absolutely nobody will be surprised to see Wolves mentioned in the very same sentence.
After all, the Wolverhampton feels like a province of of Iberia these days with Rui Patricio, Joao Moutinho, Diogo Jota, Ruben Vinagre and Ruben Neves all strutting their stuff in old gold.
And, according to Calciomercato, the Black Country giants are battling Napoli for the signature of a £32 million forward who has been compared with both Ronaldo’s – Cristiano and the Brazilian great.
Leao has only started ten Serie A games since he joined Milan from Lille in a £32 million deal.
But, according to the Nerazzuri coach, no one at the San Siro is even thinking about writing him off.
“Rafael Leao is improving a great deal, he has this incredible potential and can do so much more,” says the former Inter boss.
“I have a lot of options upfront, but I think Milan will only get to see the real Leao next season, once he’s had more time to adapt to Italian football.”
While Leao is set to stick around, Pioli will not.
The experienced tactician is expected to be replaced by Ralf Rangnick, the godfather of gegenpressing and the brains behind the Red Bull operatiom.
Rangnick is famed for his ability to help talented youngsters unlock their potential and, according to Calciomercato, 21-year-old Leao is destined to play a big part in his plans in Milan.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
