Tottenham make Rafael Leao an ‘absolute priority’ as mega transfer offer ready

Tottenham have turned their attention towards Rafael Leao as they look to replace Son Heung-min following news of his departure.

The club captain made it clear that he would be departing after an emotional interview at the end of their pre-season tour of Asia.

Son’s move to MLS side LAFC is now confirmed, and that leaves his former employers with the huge task of trying to replace a man who has starred for them throughout the last decade.

Thomas Frank will be desperate to secure a high-quality replacement for the 33-year-old, and it looks as though the Lilywhites will have to get the chequebook out if they are to fill their former skipper’s boots.

Son Heung-min in Tottenham training gear
Credit: Imago

Spurs ready to make £87.3m bid as Leao now a priority

Tottenham have been keen to sign Rafael Leao from AC Milan over the last few weeks, but they now appear ready to take their interest to the next level.

The Portuguese has established himself as one of the stars of the Rossoneri’s side, and he has shown impressive consistency in the number that he has produced in recent seasons.

Spurs have been met with uncertainty from Real Madrid forward Rodrygo as they seek a replacement for Son, but they have now seemingly turned their attention firmly towards Leao.

The North London outfit are understood to have made the 26-year-old their “absolute priority,” and are readying a huge offer worth around £87.3million, according to Fichajes (7 August).

It is believed that at the moment, Milan would be reluctant to allow him to leave, given his importance to their plans.

However, it is thought that he does have a release clause in his current contract, although the exact figure of that clause is unclear for now.

Tottenham-linked winger Rafael Leao in action for Portugal.
Credit: Imago

Leao would be a huge signing for Tottenham

It feels as though Tottenham may be onto a hiding to nothing where their pursuit of Rodrygo is concerned, given that the Brazilian has shown little desire to chase the move from his end so far.

Daniel Levy and Co. will know that only a player of that calibre will be capable of filling the void left by Son, and Leao is certainly someone who fits into that category.

SeasonLeao (Serie A)Rodrygo (La Liga)
2024/252324
2023/242525
2022/232729
Leao’s goal contributions in the last three seasons compared to Rodrygo.

He has been excellent for Milan for several years now, and it feels like a matter of time before he looks for a new challenge, considering they slipped as low as eighth in Serie A last term.

A move to N17 would hand the star the perfect opportunity to test himself in the Premier League, and would also allow him to step into a new project and immediately become one of its main figureheads.

It remains to be seen whether the offer that Spurs are lining up will be enough to tempt their Italian counterparts into doing business, but they are certainly pursuing the right level of player to try and replace Son.

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