Barcelona are tracking AC Milan forward Rafael Leao due to his strained relationship with manager Paulo Fonseca

Barcelona is interested in AC Milan’s Rafael Leao, as his relationship with coach Paulo Fonseca has worsened.

Leao, the talented Portuguese international, has been on Barcelona’s radar for an extended period. The possibility of securing his services was actively considered during the previous summer transfer window, particularly after the Catalan club recognized that their attempts to sign Nico Williams would not materialize.

Recent developments in Milan have reignited Barcelona’s interest, prompting the club to closely monitor Leao’s situation. They are currently assessing the likelihood of making a move for him if a suitable opportunity arises.

According to reports from Tuttosport, it seems that such an opportunity may indeed be on the horizon. Leao has instructed his agents to explore options for a transfer, either during the upcoming January window or at the end of the current season. This decision suggests that the forward is eager to find a new environment where he feels more appreciated and can better showcase his talents.

The 25-year-old’s discontent stems primarily from Fonseca’s recent decisions, which have seen Leao benched in critical matches, including a vital showdown against Napoli. The coach has cited Leao’s insufficient improvement in his defensive responsibilities as the reason for his exclusion from the starting lineup. This ongoing conflict has contributed to Leao’s growing frustration and sense of neglect.

The tension between Leao and Fonseca has escalated to a level that has compelled the forward to contemplate leaving Milan altogether. His desire for a change is not just a whim; it reflects a deeper ambition to compete at the highest levels and find a club that aligns more closely with his style of play and career aspirations.

As previously mentioned, Barcelona remains vigilant in tracking the evolving circumstances surrounding Leao. They have enlisted the expertise of superagent Jorge Mendes to stay updated on all relevant developments. Mendes’s involvement may prove vital as Barcelona navigates their own challenges on the roster front while aiming to secure a player of Leao’s caliber, who possesses exceptional speed and technical ability.

Nevertheless, Barcelona’s efforts to acquire Leao in January may face obstacles, particularly due to the impending registration issues concerning Dani Olmo. These complications could hinder Barcelona’s ability to bring in new talent without first offloading some existing players, making it a precarious situation.

If the friction between Leao and Fonseca persists, and should he remain in Italy until the season’s conclusion, Barcelona might be poised to make a determined approach for the 25-year-old forward. The potential addition of Leao could represent a significant boost to Barcelona’s attacking options, providing them with a dynamic player capable of transforming matches, provided the timing and circumstances align favorably for such a high-profile transfer.