Headline: Roma Considers Rafael Leao Loan with Matias Soule Swap
Roma has emerged as a potential destination for Rafael Leao in the final days of the transfer window, with discussions of a loan exchange involving Matias Soule proposed to bridge financial differences.
According to Calciomercato.it, the idea of Leao joining Roma has gained traction once again, first reported by the outlet in late July.
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One major hurdle remains: Leao’s impressive salary. However, a loan swap with Soule could potentially satisfy both parties.
PERTH, AUSTRALIA – AUGUST 05: Rafael Leao of AC Milan makes a run towards goal during the pre-season match between AC Milan and FC Internazionale at Optus Stadium on August 05, 2026 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by James Worsfold/Getty Images)
No Concrete Negotiation Yet Over Leao
While Calciomercato.it states that no formal negotiations are currently in place, the possibility of a deal remains, marking it as a significant Serie A move as the window closes.
For this arrangement to materialize, AC Milan would need to reconsider its position, as they have consistently demanded either a permanent transfer or a paid loan coupled with an obligation to buy.
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Leao has expressed a desire for a new challenge after spending seven years at San Siro. Milan has reduced their asking price from an initial €60 million to approximately €45 million. An offer from Galatasaray, valued at around €35 million plus bonuses, has fallen short of Milan’s expectations.
Reports in Italy noted that Roma had made initial contact earlier this week but backed away due to costs and Leao’s preference for an international move over another Serie A club. His contract extends until June 2028.
Roma have re-emerged as a possible destination for Rafael Leao in the closing days of the transfer window, with a loan exchange involving Matias Soule floated as a means of bridging the financial gap.
According to Calciomercato.it, the Roma option has gained traction again in recent hours, having first been reported by the outlet in late July.
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The obstacle remains the Portuguese forward’s substantial wages, though a swap of loans with Soule could satisfy both clubs.
PERTH, AUSTRALIA – AUGUST 05: Rafael Leao of AC Milan makes a run towards goal during the pre-season match between AC Milan and FC Internazionale at Optus Stadium on August 05, 2026 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by James Worsfold/Getty Images)
No concrete negotiation yet over Leao
The outlet is clear that nothing formal is underway, while adding that the move cannot be ruled out as the standout Serie A deal of the closing window.
The framework would also need Milan to soften their stance, the Rossoneri having insisted all summer on a permanent sale or a paid loan carrying an obligation to buy.
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Leao has spoken publicly of wanting a new challenge after seven years at San Siro, and Milan have cut their asking price from an initial €60m to around €45m. Galatasaray’s offer of roughly €35m plus bonuses has not met that figure.
Reports in Italy earlier this week that Roma had already made contact before stepping back, deterred by the cost and by Leao’s preference for a move abroad rather than to another Serie A club. His contract runs to June 2028.
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