The race for the Fenerbahçe presidency is heating up, and both leading candidates are making a bold statement by targeting a world-class signing. Aziz Yıldırım and Hakan Safi, who have declared their candidacies for the upcoming extraordinary general election, are simultaneously directing their efforts toward a major transfer coup: acquiring Portuguese superstar Rafael Leao from AC Milan.
According to a report from Italy's La Gazzetta dello Sport, the relationship between Leao and his current club has completely broken down. The 26-year-old attacking talent is not expected to wear the famous red and black jersey again. This development has dramatically altered the transfer landscape. Milan, which had previously inserted a staggering €175 million release clause in his contract and turned down a €100 million offer from Chelsea, has now significantly lowered its financial demands. The Serie A giants are now reportedly seeking a fee in the region of €50 to €60 million.
This price reduction has opened the door for serious contenders. Both Yıldırım and Safi have signaled their readiness to meet Milan's revised valuation. Sources indicate that if a substantial portion of the fee is paid upfront, an offer of €50 million could be accepted. The ambition of both candidates is clear: to secure an agreement with Leao and announce the transfer as a major pre-election triumph to galvanize the club's fanbase.
However, Fenerbahçe will not have a clear path to the player. The competition for Leao's signature is expected to be fierce. The report names several heavyweight clubs also interested in making a move, including Barcelona, Manchester United, and Chelsea. Furthermore, the financial power of Saudi Arabian clubs cannot be ignored, with Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal also listed as potential suitors willing to enter the bidding war.
The financial commitment required extends beyond the transfer fee. Leao's current salary at Milan, including bonuses, nets him approximately €7 million per season. When taxes and other costs are factored in, his total annual expense to the club reaches around €10 million. This high wage packet is noted as a potential deterrent for many teams, but it has not discouraged the aforementioned elite clubs from their interest.
For the Fenerbahçe candidates, securing a player of Leao's caliber would be a transformative move. Both Aziz Yıldırım and Hakan Safi are prepared to deploy all their resources and leverage to convince the player that his future lies in Istanbul. The coming weeks will determine if their financial readiness can overcome the stiff competition from Europe's biggest names.
Based on reporting from Hürriyet.