Barcelona’s persistent Interest in Leao: Why Fonseca’s strategy is working

Barcelona’s resurgence under new coach Hansi Flick has reignited enthusiasm within the club. Their strong start in La Liga and Champions League, coupled with a spectacular playing style, has brought joy back to the Camp Nou. This renewed optimism is further bolstered by a recent €2 billion sponsorship deal with Nike, enhancing the club’s financial competitiveness and opening up new possibilities in the transfer market.

Calciomercato report how among Barcelona’s top targets for future transfers is AC Milan’s star Rafael Leao. The Portuguese winger, who has been shining for both club and country in recent weeks, has long been linked with the Catalan giants. Barcelona’s strong relationship with Jorge Mendes, Leao’s former agent who still holds the mandate to sell him abroad, adds another layer to this interest.

Barcelona see Leao as a potential world-class player in his position. The club’s president Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco are particularly keen on exploring a transfer. However, Leao’s current contract with Milan runs until June 2028, with a hefty €175 million release clause and a €7 million net annual salary.

While rumors from Spain suggest Leao might consider leaving Milan due to a supposedly strained relationship with coach Paulo Fonseca, recent developments paint a different picture. Leao himself has indicated that his relationship with Fonseca has significantly improved. Moreover, the player has reaffirmed his deep connection with Milan and Italy, stating, “Milan is home, Italy is the perfect place for me. I’ve grown here as a man and as a footballer.”

Fonseca’s strategy with Leao seems to be paying off. The coach has been gradually changing Leao’s position and responsibilities on the field, aiming to make Milan more dangerous and incisive in front of goal. Leao is being deployed in a more central role, shifting from a wide winger to more of a second striker. This tactical adjustment is designed to improve Leao’s goal-scoring statistics and overall impact on the game.

The Portuguese coach’s idea is that Leao can perform best in a more hybrid position, more involved in the play. This approach also aims to address Leao’s historical weaknesses in finishing and attacking the goal directly. Despite these areas for improvement, Barcelona’s interest in Leao remains strong and persistent.

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