Galatasaray Pay €38m Base Fee to Land Rafael Leao from AC Milan
Galatasaray have completed the permanent signing of Portuguese winger Rafael Leao from AC Milan for a fixed fee of €38m. The Italian club retains a 20% sell-on clause for the forward, who previously had a contract running through 2028. Leao signed a contract worth €10m net per season in Istanbul.
The forward departs Italy after seven seasons with the Rossoneri, compiling 291 competitive appearances for AC Milan, including 227 in Serie A. His time in Milan included winning the 2021-22 league title, the 2024-25 Supercoppa Italiana, and reaching the Champions League semi-finals in 2023.
AC Milan
clubAston Villa held late negotiations to sign the winger before the window closed. The English club stepped away after failing to match the €38m fixed fee and personal salary terms offered by Galatasaray.
Rafael Leao Slots Into Galatasaray Attack Alongside Victor Osimhen
Leao joins an attacking unit in Istanbul that already features forward Victor Osimhen alongside summer additions Leroy Sane, Ilkay Gundogan, and defender Davinson Sanchez. The Portuguese international takes the No.27 shirt for his debut season in Turkey.
Aston Villa
clubGalatasaray Bolster Wing Depth With Former Serie A MVP
Adding Leao gives Galatasaray another direct wide threat capable of beating defenders on the flank. His arrival provides depth across the front line as the Turkish club manages domestic league fixtures and European match days.
Galatasaray Guarantee €38m Base Outlay Plus €10m Yearly Wage
The financial commitment requires an upfront outlay of €38m from Galatasaray, with AC Milan securing 20% of any future sale profit. Leao takes home €10m net each year on his contract in Turkey.
AC Milan Official Statement.