Aston Villa have suffered a significant blow in their pursuit of Rafael Leão after the AC Milan winger gave Galatasaray an initial green light over a move to Turkey. The Istanbul club are now closing in on an agreement with the Portugal international.
Villa had emerged as serious contenders for Leão during the closing stages of the summer transfer window, with Unai Emery keen to strengthen his attacking options before Tuesday’s deadline.
However, Fabrizio Romano now reports that Galatasaray are closing in on Leão after receiving the player’s initial approval.
That represents a major change in a transfer race which appeared far more open earlier on Friday.
Rafael Leão moves closer to Galatasaray
Galatasaray already had an agreement in principle with Milan before making progress with the player.
Romano previously reported that the two clubs were aligned on a package of around €45million plus bonuses, with Leão’s approval the major remaining obstacle.
At that stage, FootballTransfers relayed Romano’s update that Galatasaray were still working to secure Leão’s green light.
They now appear to have received it.
Villa had been attempting to exploit the situation and ReadAstonVilla previously reported that Emery’s side were pushing to bring Leão to the Premier League.
Reports earlier on Friday had even suggested the 27-year-old was leaning towards Villa, making the latest development particularly significant.
It does not necessarily end Villa’s hopes until a final agreement is completed, but Galatasaray now appear to have made the decisive move.
Villa have already strengthened Emery’s attack by agreeing a deal for Nicolas Jackson, who has also been registered in time to face Arsenal on Monday.
Whether Villa respond with another attempt to convince Leão or move towards an alternative attacking target could now become one of the key questions before the window closes.
