Milan weigh €40m gamble on Argentine Soule as Leão departure looms

AC Milan are preparing for a possible €40 million expenditure to replace forward Rafael Leão. The club expects to sell Leão to Turkish side Fenerbahçe for a comparable fee. The anticipated departure has prompted Milan to identify a direct replacement.

Argentine Matias Soulé has emerged as Milan’s primary target. Scouts value Soulé for his playing style that mirrors Leão’s attributes. Matteo Moretto confirmed to Fabrizio Romano’s YouTube channel that Milan have been offered Soulé.

No formal negotiations have started between Milan and Roma, the current holders of Soulé’s registration. Roma’s asking price for the 22‑year‑old is reported at around €40 million. The deal could be concluded within hours if both sides agree.

Roma eye Leao as Milan splurge over €50m on Moreira

Meanwhile, AS Roma are set to announce the signing of Santiago Castro, who arrived in Rome last night. The club also faces the possible exit of another Argentine player, though details remain undisclosed. These moves underline Roma’s active summer window.

The Giallorossi’s transfer discussions have centred on two names: Matias Soulé and French defender Manu Koné. Both players have attracted interest from several clubs across Europe. A separate Frenchman’s move to Manchester United has stalled, with Red Devils hesitant to spend roughly €60 million on Roma’s number 17.

Roma’s interest in strengthening the squad also includes their number 18, following the loss of Kostantinos Karetsas. The Rossoneri have expressed a desire for a forward with similar characteristics to Roma’s departing striker. This aligns with Milan’s search for a Leão replacement.

If Milan finalise Leão’s sale to Fenerbahçe, the incoming funds could be redirected to finance Soulé’s acquisition. Such a cash flow would link the two Italian clubs’ transfer strategies. The potential €40 million outlay highlights Milan’s willingness to invest heavily to maintain attacking firepower.