Rafael Leao has publicly responded to reports claiming he has fallen out with new AC Milan manager Ruben Amorim and has been labelled a “negative influence” inside the dressing room.
The Portuguese winger addressed the report directly on social media as speculation over his future at San Siro continues to grow.
Leao Responds to Amorim Rumours
Reports had claimed that Amorim was unhappy with Leao’s influence within the AC Milan squad and had concerns about the winger’s impact on the dressing-room environment.
The claims quickly fuelled further speculation that Leao could leave Milan this summer.
However, Leao has now hit back at the story himself.
Responding to a post sharing the report on X, the Milan star wrote:
“Maybe you’re because you lying.”
His response immediately added another layer to the growing speculation surrounding his future.
Why Was Leao Missing Against Manchester United?
Leao’s absence from Milan’s squad for their pre-season meeting with Manchester United had initially raised eyebrows.
Given the reports surrounding his relationship with Amorim, some supporters wondered whether his omission was connected to the alleged dressing-room tensions.
However, it was subsequently reported that Leao was left out because of a minor injury, rather than for disciplinary reasons.
That has not stopped the transfer rumours, though.
Leao’s Milan Future Remains Uncertain
Despite denying the latest report, Leao’s future at Milan remains unclear.
The 27-year-old has been heavily linked with a move away from the Italian club throughout the summer, with Milan reportedly open to his departure.
Several clubs have shown interest, particularly in Turkey.
Galatasaray, Besiktas and Fenerbahce are all believed to have submitted proposals for the winger.
However, those offers reportedly fell well short of Milan’s initial valuation.
The Italian club had been seeking around €50 million plus €10 million in add-ons, but reports suggest their demands could now fall to around €40 million as the transfer deadline approaches.
That could put Leao within reach of more clubs.
Premier League Interest Growing
A move to the Premier League remains another possibility.
Several English clubs have been linked with the Portugal international, although Leeds United have emerged as one of the most frequently mentioned destinations.
Leeds are reportedly interested in making Leao one of their biggest statements since returning to the Premier League.
However, his wages could prove a major obstacle.
Leao is reportedly earning around £105,000 per week at Milan, which would make him Leeds’ highest-paid player if he arrived on similar terms.
The club’s current highest earners are reportedly around the £100,000-a-week mark.
Leao could also demand an improved salary if he makes what could be one of the biggest moves of his career.
Amorim Reunion Adds Another Twist
The situation is particularly intriguing because of Amorim’s arrival at Milan.
The Portuguese manager joined the Italian club in June after leaving Manchester United earlier in the year.
His return to face United in pre-season has attracted significant attention, but the relationship between Amorim and Leao has now become another major storyline surrounding the club.
Leao’s public response suggests he is unhappy with the reports about his relationship with the manager.
Whether that is enough to settle the speculation remains to be seen.
What Happens Next?
With the transfer deadline approaching, Leao’s situation could develop quickly.
If Milan lower their asking price, more clubs could enter the race for one of Serie A’s most recognisable attacking players.
For now, Leao remains an AC Milan player and has rejected the suggestion that he is a negative influence in Amorim’s dressing room.
But with Premier League interest reportedly growing and Milan potentially lowering their valuation, the next few weeks could determine whether Leao begins a new chapter away from San Siro.
