Report: Rafael Leao Offered to Tottenham Hotspur But Spurs Reject Milan Outcast

Jul 10, 2026 3 min read 9 views

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Rafael Leao's future at AC Milan looks increasingly uncertain after reports from Fabrizio Romano suggest the Portuguese winger was offered to Tottenha...

Rafael Leao's time at Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur, but the north London club swiftly rejected the opportunity to sign him. The revelation confirms the 27-year-old has fallen dramatically out of favour at the San Siro, with Milan seemingly desperate to move him on during the summer transfer window.

Background: From Scudetto Hero to Outcast

Leao's trajectory at Milan has been a case of steep rise and abrupt fall. The 2021/22 season saw him crowned Tottenham Rejected the Approach

The report from Fabrizio Romano makes it clear: the decisive factor was Roberto De Zerbi. Since taking over at Tottenham, De Zerbi has implemented a tactical philosophy that prioritises collective pressing, structured build-up, and relentless work rate—areas where Leao has often fallen short. The Portuguese winger is undeniably gifted, but his defensive contributions and consistency have been points of criticism throughout his career. De Zerbi, known for his uncompromising standards, apparently doesn't see Leao fitting into his project at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Furthermore, Leao's substantial wages—reportedly in excess of €7 million net per season—would make him one of Spurs' top earners, a financial commitment the club is unwilling to make for a player not deemed a tactical fit.

“ Rafael Leao was proposed to Tottenham but they said no. De Zerbi doesn't want him,” Romano stated, emphasising that Spurs are instead focusing on younger, more disciplined talents.

What's Next for Rafael Leao?

With the Milan exit door now wide open, Leao and his entourage must seek alternatives. The collapse of the Tottenham link is a significant blow, as the Premier League had long been seen as a natural stage for his talents. Other English clubs have been loosely linked in the past—Chelsea and Newcastle among them—but no concrete offers have materialized. The Saudi Pro League, with its vast financial resources, could emerge as a destination, but at 27, Leao may still harbour ambitions of competing at the top level in Europe. His next move will be telling: whether he accepts a step down to a mid-table Premier League side or seeks a fresh challenge in La Liga or the Bundesliga. One thing is certain: a player once valued at over €100 million will now likely be available for a fraction of that price, making him a high-risk, high-reward option for any potential suitor.

Key Takeaways

Fabrizio Romano reports that Rafael Leao was offered to Tottenham but the move was rejected at the behest of manager Roberto De Zerbi.
Leao's stock has plummeted at AC Milan, where he is now considered surplus to requirements despite a contract running until 2028 and a €175 million release clause.
The winger's high wages, tactical indiscipline, and inconsistent performances were cited as reasons for Tottenham's disinterest.
The Portuguese international faces an uncertain future, with a summer exit from Milan increasingly likely; potential suitors may negotiate a cut-price deal.
At 27, Leao still has time to revive his career, but he must choose his next club wisely to avoid further stagnation.