Galatasaray signs Portuguese winger Rafael Leão from AC Milan for €38m
Galatasaray announced the permanent signing of Rafael Leão from AC Milan on a four-year contract. The Portuguese winger will earn a net salary of €10 million per season, with Milan receiving 20% of any future transfer profit. The deal is valued at €38 million, approximately $44 million.
The transfer marks a significant investment by the Turkish club, with the €38 million fee reflecting Leão's status as a former Serie A MVP. His four-year contract includes a net salary of €10 million per season, making him one of the highest-paid players in the Turkish Super Lig. The agreement also includes a sell-on clause granting Milan 20% of any future profit from a subsequent transfer.
Leão's move comes after a period that included preseason activity in Asia, as shown by his appearance in a friendly against Chelsea in Jakarta earlier in August. The deal signals Galatasaray's ambition to compete at a higher level in European competitions, bringing a player with proven pedigree from one of Italy's top clubs to the Turkish league.
This high-profile signing could elevate the Turkish Super Lig's international profile and attract greater viewership and commercial interest. Galatasaray supporters may see this as a statement of ambition, potentially boosting match attendance and merchandise sales. For AC Milan, the sell-on clause provides ongoing financial benefit. The transfer may also influence other top European players to consider Turkish clubs as viable destinations, reshaping competitive dynamics across European football.