Tottenham eye AC Milan forward as Villa joins the chase

Tottenham have been offered the chance to sign AC Milan forward Rafael Leao, and Aston Villa are also in talks, creating a three‑way pursuit for the 27‑year‑old striker.

Leao's recent form

Leao finished the 2025/26 season with ten goals and three assists from 31 appearances, a record described as underwhelming for the Serie A giants. Italian journalist Daniele Longo reported the numbers and noted that despite the dip, several clubs remain interested. The forward’s age and contract status keep him on the market.

Villa’s bid and player options

Aston Villa have reportedly made a formal offer and Leao’s representatives are currently negotiating personal terms with the West Midlands club. The player’s camp told Tottenham this week that he is available for a move this summer, while also keeping other options open. Villa’s approach, first made in mid‑July, has been renewed as the deadline approaches.

Tottenham's attacking overhaul

Tottenham have already spent £237 million on defenders and midfielders earlier in the summer window. They have added Savinho for an initial £75 million and secured Omar Marmoush on loan with an obligation to buy, positioning Savinho on the right and Marmoush as a central striker. With Xavi Simons recovering from an ACL injury, a vacancy remains on the left wing that Leao could fill, potentially completing an entirely new front three.

The club’s recent signings aim to address a lack of dribblers and carriers, a deficiency highlighted by their scouting reports. Leao’s blend of creativity and goal‑scoring could dovetail with Savinho’s flair and Marmoush’s finishing, offering a balanced attack.

Savinho dazzles Tottenham in debut, sparks prince talk

Portugal legend Nani praised Leao in an exclusive interview with GMS in 2025, calling him “world‑class”. Leao’s 2022/23 Serie A statistics show high expected goals and assists per 90 minutes, as well as a prolific dribble rate, underscoring his suitability for Tottenham’s left side.

All statistics are sourced from FotMob and are correct as of 27/08/2026. Daniele Longo says the offer remains on the table, and Tottenham have until the September 1 deadline to decide.

Alfie Cairns Culshaw profile

Alfie Cairns Culshaw AM GMT+1 is a football journalist covering the Premier League for GIVEMESPORT. He joined the company in May 2024, is an avid Arsenal fan and season ticket holder, and previously worked for SportBible covering Liverpool and Manchester United.

Alfie creates YouTube content, runs an Arsenal Blog, and has amassed over 59,000 Instagram followers. He has also produced video for CheekySport, written for The Football Faithful, and is known for data‑led analysis in football reporting.

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