Rafael Leao’s future at AC Milan is uncertain.
Galatasaray are interested.
A departure before the window closes remains entirely possible.
And Ruben Amorim, the man who replaced Massimiliano Allegri at the San Siro, has already told the club exactly who he wants to fill that space.
An 18-year-old Greek midfielder from Belgium.
AC Milan make Konstantinos Karetsas their number one attacking target as Rafael Leao replacement
According to Gazzetta.it, Karetsas has been identified as AC Milan’s primary target for the attacking midfield position, with Amorim having personally requested the 18-year-old in internal meetings and Genk setting a €40 million asking price.
The player’s own preference is clear.
He wants AC Milan.
Journalist Matteo Moretto confirmed that Karetsas has prioritised the San Siro over Dortmund, and is willing to wait for Milan to get their finances in order, even if that means his move is delayed while the club resolves outgoings first.
The story of how he caught Milan’s attention begins in Portugal last November.
Ex-technical director Geoffrey Moncada travelled personally to Braga to watch Genk’s Europa League group stage match.
Karetsas produced two assists in a breathtaking 4-3 victory.
The feedback from Moncada was extremely positive.
At the time, he didn’t fit Allegri’s system.
Under Amorim, he fits perfectly.
16 assists in the 2025-26 season.
An attacking midfielder who can also operate from the right wing.
Left-footed, direct and already proving he belongs at a senior level despite his age.
Genk are relaxed about the interest but firm on price.
They tied Karetsas to a new contract until 2029 precisely because they knew this summer was coming.
There is no urgency to sell.
But with Milan the player’s preferred destination, Genk know a deal is coming.
The only question is when, and whether Leão’s departure generates the funds to make it happen before August closes.
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