Pioli Hints Positive Contract Talks Between AC Milan and Rafael Leao

• AC Milan and Rafael Leao were at a standstill in contract talks before the World Cup
• The winger has been a subject of transfer speculation linking him with other clubs
• Club manager Stefan Pioli has now dropped a hint that Leao will remain at AC Milan

Portuguese winger Rafael Leao is one of the most sought after players in Europe, after a blistering campaign for AC Milan in last season's Serie A win.

Leao will have just one year left on his contract by the end of the new season. An agreement is yet to be reached for an extension with AC Milan, which makes Leao susceptible to leaving the Italian club.

He is currently with Portugal at the Qatar 2022 World Cup, where they will face Switzerland in the round of 16. He scored in the opening day 3-2 win over Ghana.

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AC Milan manager Stefano Pioli has now hinted that talks are positive and Rossoneri fans could hear good news about their beloved winger soon.

Leao not finished with Milan

Pioli, who guided the Italian giants to their first Serie A title since 2011, provided an update on the winger to Sky Sports Italia, and was quoted by Football Italia:

“Two things are sure; that he is well with us, because I see and talk to him, and that Rafa and the club are talking. We are waiting for good news. I believe that his path with us is not yet finished. I see that we are well together.” he said.

Leao was instrumental in AC Milan's Scudetto victory, scoring 11 goals and assisting in a further 10. He was named the league's MVP for his exploits.

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Leao confirmed positive contract talks

Sports Brief earlier reported that Leao confirmed positive contract talks with AC Milan, but will only decide his future in January after the World Cup.

Pioli's new revelation and Leao seem to agree, and if this is anything to go by, the 23-year-old will stay at the club beyond the current season and fend off interest from his admirers.

It could also be that AC Milan are trying to insert a realistic transfer fee into his contract so as to sell him at a higher fee. Players have signed new contracts and moved within months.