Despite their obvious financial problems and ongoing registration drama, neither have ever stood in the way of Barcelona president Joan Laporta attempting a high-profile signing in the summer. One of the players he likes most this summer is AC Milan's Rafael Leao.
Laporta is a big fan of his and believes signing Leao would provide a boost in terms of profile and reputation. While there are doubts about his consistency, his talent goes beyond that, and at his best he can be unstoppable. The fact that Jorge Mendes represents Leao and has a close relationship with Laporta is an important factor, and that alone will put him high on their shortlist, says Sport.
However, Barcelona's staff are not of the same opinion. While they recognize that Leao is deadly in space with the ball at his feet and on the counter, his play outside of it gives them doubts. One element of the scouting reports on him is also highlighted: the fact that he does not have much of a defensive work rate, and there are also doubts about his abilities when faced with crowded defenses, something that Barcelona often have to deal with.
The fact that Lamine Yamal is on the other flank is another negative if you also look at Leao. They are excited about the 17-year-old, but are also not naturally inclined to defend, and the idea of having both of them in the side could unbalance the team. In general, they believe that there are other options in the position that would suit Barcelona better.
Perhaps the biggest problem is its price tag. Even considering Barcelona's relationship with Mendes, the Catalan daily notes that Milan are 'highly unlikely' to accept a bid of less than €90 million for Leao.
Leao is no longer an emerging talent, and as he reaches the peak of his career, it is understandable that there are doubts about whether he will develop some holes in his game. Raphinha has been used more inside than on the left flank this season, but his defensive work-rate should not be underestimated when considering his contribution.
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