In a potential blockbuster move that could redefine their attack, Premier League leaders Arsenal are reportedly considering a sensational swap deal for AC Milan winger Rafael Leao. The Portuguese international, once flatteringly compared to Gunners legend Thierry Henry, is seen as the marquee signing who could provide the final piece in Mikel Arteta's title-winning puzzle.
The Henry Comparison and a Slashed Price Tag
According to reports from Spanish outlet Fichajes, Arsenal are preparing a swoop for the 26-year-old forward, believing he can provide the crucial 'boost' needed to finally secure the Champions League. Leao's valuation has seen a significant shift, making a deal more plausible than in previous windows.
Where clubs were once deterred by a hefty €150million release clause, Milan's demands are now believed to be in the region of €80m (£71m) to £85m. This slashed asking price is reportedly because the Italian giants are now prepared to part with their prize asset, whom they signed from Lille for €35m in 2019, for a substantial fee.
The connection to Arsenal's past is compelling. Former Milan manager Stefano Pioli made the comparison in 2022, stating: "Leao reminds me a lot of the early Thierry Henry, who started wide then came inside." Leao himself responded with characteristic humility, telling DAZN: "He was a great player but I'm still young and not at that level yet."
Martinelli's Role in a Potential Swap
The plot thickens with the potential involvement of current Arsenal attacker Gabriel Martinelli. Fichajes suggests that the Gunners are considering selling the Brazilian to make room for Leao. A smart tactical move would be to include Martinelli in a swap deal, simultaneously securing their top target and providing Milan with a ready-made, high-quality replacement.
While by no means an outcast under Arteta, Martinelli's rapid development has stunted in recent seasons. The 24-year-old will be expecting regular starts as he enters his prime years, but he has not started a Premier League match since August. Despite scoring a late equaliser against Manchester City and netting three times in the Champions League, he finds himself behind Leandro Trossard in the league pecking order.
The arrival of Leao would further diminish Martinelli's chances of starting in the biggest matches. A move to the Italian giants, however, could offer him the platform to return to his very best form.
A Deal That Could Seal Arsenal's Destiny
This potential transfer comes at a critical juncture for the North London club. After three successive second-placed finishes in the Premier League, the consensus is that there is no more room for error. With rivals Manchester City and Liverpool always poised for a late charge, Arteta knows his squad must be perfect.
Arsenal have built a formidable, deep squad capable of executing the manager's vision. However, the addition of a player of Leao's calibre could be the decisive factor that elevates them from contenders to champions. A straight swap for Martinelli is unlikely, but an offer of Martinelli plus a fee of £20m - £25m could be enough to persuade Milan if the reported reduced asking price is accurate.
For Arsenal, securing a player once compared to their greatest ever striker would be a monumental statement of intent, potentially providing the firepower needed to end their long wait for Premier League glory.
