‘I like Arsenal’ - Gunners transfer target discusses future after shining at AC Milan

Arsenal transfer target Rafael Leao has admitted he has been impressed with the Gunners so far this season.

The AC Milan and Portugal forward is one of several attacking players being linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium during the January transfer window as Mikel Arteta looks to fill the void left by the serious injury suffered by Gabriel Jesus. The Brazil star is expected to be on the sidelines for a number of months as he recovers from an operation he underwent in the aftermath of suffering an injury on international duty.

Life without their number nine began well for Arteta and his players as Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli and Eddie Nketiah all scored in Monday night’s 3-1 home win against London rivals West Ham United. That ensured the Gunners will head into 2023 sat with a commanding lead at the top of the Premier League table and continued their impressive push for a first title in 19 years.

Leao, who has scored seven goals in 20 appearances in all competitions for Milan this season and found the net twice in Portugal’s run to the World Cup quarter-finals. He is now preparing for a return to Serie A action when Stefano Pioli’s side visit Salernitana next Wednesday but his long-term future with the Rossoneri has been the subject of intense speculation with several clubs in England and Spain said to be showing an interest in his services.

Speaking in a recent interview, Leao confirmed he would like to test his undoubted ability in another league at some point in the future and revealed he has been impressed with Arsenal’s form so far this season.

He told RDP Africa: “Experience in new league? Yes, in the future… but now I’m 100% focused on AC Milan — it’s a top club and I’m under contract there. I like the city too”. I watch many games (in other leagues). This year, I like Arsenal — they’re playing very well”.