Wolves are reportedly interested in signing AC Milan forward Rafael Leao this summer as Bruno Lage looks to make his mark on the first team squad at Molineux.
What's the story?
According to Italian outlet Gazzetta dello Sport (as reported by Sport Witness), the Italian giants will either sell Leao or Jens Petter Hauge over the coming months, with a €15m (£13m) asking price mooted for the Portuguese striker.
The report added that there have been some discussions between the two clubs, while Wolves could once again be aided by super-agent Jorge Mendes, who represents the 22-year-old.
Imagine him and Jimenez
Wolves' extensive collection of Portuguese talent has been well documented in recent years, and they could be about to add another highly-rated young Iberian star to their ranks.
Leao moved to San Siro from Lille back in 2019 for a substantial fee after impressing in Ligue 1, and his standout performances drew extreme praise from his former Sporting Lisbon manager Tiago Fernandes.
Speaking to Tuttomercatoweb in August 2019, Fernandes compared Leao to the Brazilian Ronaldo and claimed that he was capable of playing for any top club in Europe, saying: "He reminds me of Ronaldo, the 'Phenomenon', for speed, technique and quality in the decisive part of the action. Rafael has the talent to play for Real Madrid, Barcelona, all the best European clubs."
However, the 22-year-old has struggled to find his best form in Serie A. In 40 appearances for the Rossoneri last term, Leao bagged seven goals and provided a further six assists for his teammates, a respectable return but not a mind-blowing one either.
He has done enough to showcase his top-class potential, though, and a switch to Wolves could be the perfect move for the youngster's development.
The Midlands outfit have developed a reputation for being an extremely effective counter-attacking team during their three-year stay in the Premier League, so Leao could be a natural fit for their system.
His natural pace and power would compliment Raul Jimenez's heading and finishing ability perfectly, potentially forming a dream duo at Molineux next season.
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