Aston Villa Targets Rafael Leao as Forward Reinforcement Ahead of Deadline Day
Aston Villa has made a significant move to secure Rafael Leao, the AC Milan forward, as reported by Sky in Italy. The English club is serious about acquiring the Portugal winger, who has shown openness to leaving his current club. Negotiations between Aston Villa and AC Milan are underway, aiming to finalize an agreement before the Deadline Day on September 1. Leao, versatile enough to play as a centre forward or on the left wing, recorded nine goals and three assists in 29 Serie A appearances last season. Villa is keen to bolster their attacking options amidst uncertainty surrounding Ollie Watkins' future. Reports indicate that Al Hilal, a Saudi Pro League side, is pursuing Watkins and has already seen at least one bid rejected. In his absence, Villa suffered a 4-0 defeat to Brighton, with manager Unai Emery stating, "Ask him. I only can answer it by silence" when questioned about Watkins' exclusion. Following the match, Watkins reportedly returned to training and apologized to teammates for his absence. In the wake of injuries to Tammy Abraham and Brian Madjo, Villa resorted to using Emi Buendia and Ross Barkley as makeshift forwards. The club faces a critical juncture, having lost several key players this summer, including Youri Tielemans and Lucas Digne. With the potential departures of Watkins and Emiliano Martinez, Leao represents not just a stopgap but a strategic addition. His ability to drive at defenses and threaten goals from various positions could replicate the output lost with Morgan Rogers' exit. A move to Villa could provide Leao with Champions League football and a prominent role in the Premier League, making it a mutually beneficial prospect for both the player and the club.
Source: Sky Sports - 2026-08-25