GN View: Everton dealt massive blow as Rafael Leao agrees new Milan deal
Everton have been dealt a massive blow in their pursuit of Rafael Leao after he agreed a new deal with AC Milan, according to Gazzetta dello Sport.
The Toffees had been linked with a move for the Portuguese winger in the summer [Rudy Galetti] but the forward turned down a move to the club as he wanted to stay with Milan.
The ‘superb‘ youngster has continued to be monitored by Rafa Benitez’s side, but the final nail is set to enter the coffin as Leao has now agreed a new deal.
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Leao has agreed a new two-year extension to his current deal that will run until 2026 that will see his wages tripled.
The winger has scored six goals and registered two assists in 20 appearances this season, and also earned his maiden international call up for the Portuguese national team ahead of this year’s World Cup.
The news will come as a blow to Everton but the likelihood is it won’t be a surprise to them.
Leao has been keen to stay at Milan throughout the reported interest and has continued to be a regular starter in the team, so there was no real reason for that to change.
Everton are struggling this season, sitting in 15th place and closer to relegation than the European places in the table so the only thing they could really offer him would be a financial boost.
Milan have countered that now and it will likely be the end of this saga and Rafa Benitez will need to turn his attentions elsewhere if he wants to bolster his attack.
An attacker is needed after the season they have had so far, and Leao would’ve been the perfect signing to boost morale and get them firing again.
However it isn’t to be on this occasion and it’s a blow that Everton are going to have to get over to turn their season around.
In other Everton news, star man edging closer to exit with four clubs pursuing a deal – report