Exclusive: Rafael Leao makes stance clear over leaving AC Milan after Tottenham offered chance to sign him
Rafael Leao Excited to Work Under Allegri as AC Milan Reject Tottenham Approach
TBR Football understands that Rafael Leao is thrilled at the opportunity to work under returning AC Milan head coach Massimiliano Allegri, while the experienced Italian tactician is equally enthusiastic about managing the Portuguese star.
After more than a decade away from San Siro, Allegri has returned to take charge of Milan for a second spell, sparking a wave of optimism and renewed ambition at the club. The 56-year-old former Juventus boss has wasted no time in outlining his vision, and central to that is the continued development of Rafael Leao. Allegri reportedly believes he can mould the 25-year-old winger into one of the most dangerous and complete forwards in world football.
Leao, who has been the subject of transfer speculation following Milan’s failure to qualify for European football, has drawn strong interest from several Premier League sides — most notably Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur. With his blend of pace, power, and flair, he was viewed as a prime target for clubs looking to add elite-level quality in wide attacking areas.
However, despite Tottenham being offered a chance to sign Leao through intermediaries, sources at AC Milan have categorically ruled out any possibility of him leaving. According to TBR Football’s chief correspondent Graeme Bailey, the Serie A side remains firm in its stance, with Allegri playing a crucial role in keeping the player at the club.
Bailey explained:
> “My understanding is that intermediaries reached out to Spurs following Son Heung-min’s departure and James Maddison’s injury, proposing Rafael Leao as a potential solution. It was an opportunistic move — the kind that has led to some of football’s biggest transfers in the past. However, I’ve spoken to Milan, and they are not entertaining any discussions regarding Leao’s departure.”
Sources suggest Allegri has already exerted influence over key decisions at the club, signing off on the sale of Tijjani Reijnders and pushing for the pursuit of Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic. However, when it comes to Leao, Allegri has made his position crystal clear — the winger is not for sale. He has reportedly communicated to the Milan board that Leao is integral to his tactical plans and believes he can help the Portuguese international reach world-class status under his guidance.
Leao himself is said to be excited by Allegri’s arrival and the fresh project taking shape at Milan. Despite external interest, particularly from the Premier League, there is currently no indication that the player wishes to leave the Rossoneri. His focus remains on staying and thriving in Italy.
Meanwhile, Tottenham Hotspur face mounting pressure in the transfer market with just 26 days left before the summer window slams shut. The club’s attacking options have been hit hard by Son Heung-min’s high-profile exit and a concerning injury to creative lynchpin James Maddison. The pair combined for 46 goal contributions across all competitions last season, and the loss of both simultaneously has left a significant void.
Spurs have been exploring alternatives to fill the attacking gaps. Real Madrid forward Rodrygo has been mentioned as another possible target, but similar to Leao, the Brazilian is currently reluctant to leave his club, where he remains an important figure under Carlo Ancelotti.
The urgency is growing for Tottenham, who now must act quickly to bring in a new No. 10 and a left-sided forward capable of delivering both goals and creativity. With the season fast approaching, and their top targets either unavailable or unwilling to move, the North London club could find themselves in serious trouble if reinforcements are not secured before the transfer deadline.