Why did Rafael Leão say that PSG star Kylian Mbappé is a fan of Champions League semi-finalists AC Milan?

AC Milan fans become used to seeing Rafael Leão terrorising Serie A - and indeed European - defences from the left wing, with the Portuguese attacker having provided a total of 26 goal contributions (13 goals, 13 assists) in 44 appearances in all competitions this season. Yet it seems as if he himself is lining up a move for a man who could steal his place in the starting line-up…none other than Paris Saint-Germain star Kylian Mbappé.

Leão: Mbappé is already a Milan fan

The former Porto man revealed that he had “invited” the France captain to join him at San Siro and reminded us all of Mbappé's on-the-record declaration that he was a Milan fan. “He [Mbappé] is the best player I’ve come across. He’s already a Rossonero, he should come to Milan!”. Although Leão’s comments were very much tongue in cheek, not that that would stop the club’s fans’ minds from racing...again.

Why is Mbappé a Milan fan?

At this year’s The Best FIFA Football Awards, Mbappé was asked by an Italian journalist if he would ever think about playing in Serie A. “Only for Milan”, came the response.

The Frenchman explained in an interview with Italian newspaper Gazetta dello Sport: “When I was a child, I had an Italian nanny and I spent a lot of time with her family. They are all Milan supporters. So, thanks to them, I also cheered on the Rossoneri and watched a lot of Milan games.”

The PSG star has long been linked with a move to Real Madrid but do the Spaniards have to worry about losing not only this season’s Champions League trophy but also their number one transfer target to the San Siro side? Probably not, if we’re being honest. At least the second bit.

Leão an injury doubt for Champions League semi-final against Inter

In fictional Milan-related news, Leão is a serious injury doubt for his team’s Champions League semi-final clash against city rivals Inter after being forced off after only 11 minutes of his team’s Serie A victory over Lazio on Saturday.

Speaking on The Residency app, the winger had the following to say about it: “My injury doesn’t worry me. I’ll be back soon, I’m optimistic. I’ve healed and I slept all day”. However, according to ‘La Gazzetta dello Sport’, ‘soon’ is likely to mean the second leg of the tie rather than Wednesday’s first leg.