MN: Champions League factor crucial as talks continue of Leao’s renewal

Rafael Leao has given his priority to AC Milan as renewal talks continue but the Champions League will be a key factor, a report claims.

MilanNews recall how Leao seemed back to his best at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on Sunday night as he scored a brace playing on the left wing, which gave rise to some enthusiasm suggesting an extension could follow.

For several weeks contacts between management and the entourage of the Portuguese winger have been going on, with the latter having also spoken with those who look after Leao’s non-footballing interests.

Leao’s people would like to complete and conclude the negotiations once Milan have reached qualification for the next edition of the Champions League, which is almost mandatory in order for the former Lille man to stay.

In the event Milan do miss out on the top European competition, his sale during the summer cannot be ruled out. Leao’s priority is to stay and the club are trying to make it happen, while he will definitely not leave on a free transfer and he has suitors regardless of the extension of the contract.