Rafael Leao (foto: uradna spletna stran kluba)
Rafael Leao has completed a €38m move from AC Milan to Galatasaray, signing a four-year contract with the Turkish champions after seven seasons at San Siro.
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Rafael Leao has become the latest big name to join the Turkish transfer boom after leaving AC Milan and completing a move to Galatasaray.
Milan officially confirmed the departure of the 27-year-old Portuguese international, who has signed a four-year contract in Istanbul. The clubs did not disclose the transfer fee, but L'Equipe reports that Galatasaray will pay around €38m, with Milan retaining a 20 percent share of any future sale.
Leao is also set to receive a significant salary increase, with reports in France suggesting he could earn as much as €10m per season at Galatasaray, where he will now form a formidable attacking partnership with Victor Osimhen.
Seven years and 291 matches at Milan
Leao joined Milan from Lille in 2019 and developed into one of the Rossoneri's most important and recognizable players. Across seven seasons, he made 291 appearances, scored 80 goals and provided 65 assists in all competitions.
His biggest achievement came in the 2021/22 campaign when he helped Milan win the Serie A title, while he was also part of the team that lifted the Italian Super Cup in 2024.
"The club would like to thank Rafa for the professionalism and passion he has shown in these seven seasons in the Rossoneri jersey. We wish him all the best, personally and professionally, in the new chapter of his career," Milan said in their farewell message.
Champions League awaits Leao in Istanbul
Leao will continue playing Champions League football with Galatasaray, with one fixture already carrying particular significance. The Turkish champions travel to Lille on October 21, allowing Leao to face another of his former clubs.
He spent one season with Lille before moving to Milan, registering eight goals and two assists in 26 appearances. Seven years later, his long San Siro chapter is over and Galatasaray have added another major European star to an increasingly ambitious squad.