Tottenham have been presented with the chance to sign Rafael Leao via intermediaries – though the deal comes with a major caveat.

Tottenham Hotspur’s interest in Rafael Leao has taken an interesting twist, with new reports shedding light on the player’s position regarding a switch to North London.

Earlier this week, it emerged that the Portuguese winger had been added to Spurs’ shortlist of wide forward targets for the summer window. Sources indicated that AC Milan are aware of Tottenham’s genuine interest, with the club initially exploring the possibility of talks. However, the move is currently being downplayed, largely due to the high cost involved.

According to TBR Football, Leao is enthusiastic about staying at Milan, particularly under new manager Massimiliano Allegri. While intermediaries have floated the idea of a Spurs move — partly prompted by Heung-min Son’s departure and James Maddison’s injury — Milan have made it clear they have no intention of selling.

Journalist Graeme Bailey told the outlet that although these approaches are opportunistic, such circumstances have sparked major transfers in the past. Still, after Allegri approved Tijjani Reijnders’ sale, he has been given significant say over big squad decisions, including pushing for Dusan Vlahovic and retaining key figures like Christian Pulisic and Leao. Allegri reportedly believes he can develop Leao into one of the world’s elite forwards, a vision that excites the player himself.

With Leao unlikely to leave the San Siro, Tottenham may have to refocus their efforts elsewhere. The club have been linked with Real Madrid’s Rodrygo Goes — for whom they are believed to have tabled a bid — as well as Manchester City’s Jack Grealish, with Fabrizio Romano confirming Spurs have made contact to assess his availability.