Aston Villa turn attention to Rafael Leao deal after green light
Aston Villa are considering a move for AC Milan star Rafael Leao as they look to bolster their attacking options before the close of the transfer window, sources have told Football Insider.
Leao has been linked with a host of clubs this summer, with Milan open to offers for the winger ahead of next week's deadline.
He is pushing to leave the San Siro for a new challenge after seven years at the club.
The 27-year-old has attracted interest from across Europe in the last few months, but is yet to be tempted to leave Milan.
He registered 10 goals and three assists in 31 appearances across all competitions last season while battling recurring injury concerns.
Unai Emery is pushing for Villa to add to his attacking depth in the next eight days after their nightmare start to the new season at Brighton.
Rafael Leao on Aston Villa's radar as new attacking signings eyed
Leao proved his quality at the World Cup with Portugal as he registered a goal and an assist in 155 minutes of game time.
He has been regarded as one of the best left wingers in the world over the last few seasons, with 80 goals and 65 assists in 291 matches for Milan.
He has been linked to Roma in the last few weeks, while sources have revealed to Football Insider that Leeds are firmly in the race to sign Leao after reports emerged of them being offered his services.
Villa have made just one attacking signing so far this summer, with Alejandro Garnacho joining on loan from Chelsea, and so are prioritising arrivals in the final third in the next week before the deadline.
Villa keen to complete double Chelsea swoop to bolster forward depth
Emery was forced to start Emi Buendia up front against Brighton on Sunday, with Ollie Watkins absent amid interest in his services from Al Hilal.
As well as Leao, sources have exclusively revealed to Football Insider that Villa want to sign Nicolas Jackson and Liam Delap before the window slams shut.
Both centre-forwards are on Emery's agenda as they train away from Xabi Alonso's first team squad at Chelsea ahead of respective exits.