The name of Rafael Leao is gaining strength again in the offices of FC Barcelona. Joan Laporta, the president of the club, is a declared admirer of the Portuguese forward from AC Milan. However, the desire of the executive clashes with the reservations of the coach Hansi Flick, who does not see Leao as the ideal profile to strengthen the left wing of his team.
Leao, with a contract until 2028 and valued at 75 million euros, has shown to be an explosive player capable of deciding matches in key moments. Nevertheless, his inconsistency and certain tactical deficiencies raise doubts among the Barcelona technical staff. Flick, who has prioritized a balance between attack and defense, believes that the Portuguese player does not offer enough defensive commitment, an essential quality in his scheme.
One of the arguments that the German coach puts forward is that the right flank of Barça already has an offensive profile like Lamine Yamal, who at 17 years old is becoming one of the greatest promises of world football. Adding a left winger with similar characteristics could unbalance the team in defensive situations.
The Portuguese does not fit in Hansi Flick's system
Furthermore, Leao's style of play, shining in open spaces but losing effectiveness against organized defenses, does not fully convince the coach. According to the newspaper Sport, Flick prefers more complete options that can contribute both in attack and defensive duties.
On the other hand, Laporta seems willing to use his influence to try to push the operation forward. His close relationship with Jorge Mendes, Leao's agent and other key players of Barça, could be a determining factor. Nevertheless, the high figure demanded by Milan, close to 90 million euros, adds another obstacle to a signing that, for now, is far from becoming a reality.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El fichaje que Laporta quiere imponerle a Flick