Renowned football transfer analyst Fabrizio Romano has dismissed speculation linking Arsenal with a summer move for AC Milan forward Rafael Leão, asserting the Portuguese star was never under consideration by the Premier League club. The clarification came via a direct exchange on social media, where Romano responded to a fan inquiry about the Gunners’ reported interest by stating emphatically: “Never been an option. Leão stays at Milan.”
The interaction occurred on Meta’s Threads platform, where a user under the handle @c.h.u.c.h.uu questioned whether Arsenal remained keen on the 25-year-old winger. Romano’s rebuttal aligns with recent reports reinforcing Leão’s commitment to Milan, where he signed a long-term contract in 2023 following intense transfer rumors last year. While Arsenal is widely acknowledged to be scouting for a specialist left winger this window, insiders suggest the club’s priorities lie elsewhere unless squad changes force a rethink.
Real Madrid’s Rodrygo and Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon have also been loosely connected to the North London side, though no formal approaches have materialized. Market observers note that Arsenal’s current attacking depth—anchored by Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli—reduces urgency for new signings in that position. Club sources indicate any move for a winger would likely depend on the departure of either Trossard or Martinelli, both of whom remain integral to manager Mikel Arteta’s plans.
Leão’s situation underscores a broader trend in the transfer market, where clubs face heightened financial scrutiny and prioritize retaining key assets. The Milan forward, who contributed 15 goals and 14 assists across competitions last season, is seen as a cornerstone of the Serie A club’s project under manager Paulo Fonseca. His €175 million release clause, active until 2028, further discourages potential suitors.
For Arsenal, the focus appears to shift toward reinforcing other areas, with defensive midfield and central defense reportedly higher on the agenda. The club’s measured approach reflects a strategy of targeted recruitment rather than reactionary spending, despite external links to high-profile attackers. As the summer window progresses, clarity on player retention and sales will dictate whether the Gunners revisit their options on the flanks.
Romano’s track record of accuracy in transfer dealings lends weight to his dismissal of the Leão rumors, offering clarity to fans amid a climate of speculative reports. With preseason preparations underway, Arsenal supporters await concrete developments, while Milan can breathe easier knowing their talisman remains central to their ambitions.
