Phil Foden offered to AC Milan as potential Rafael Leao replacement

**Phil Foden linked with AC Milan as Leao exit looms**

Phil Foden has been proposed to AC Milan as a potential replacement for Rafael Leao, with Manchester City open to a €50-60m deal to fund the swap. The England international’s contract expires in 2026, and his strained relations with City-exacerbated by Thomas Tuchel omitting him from the World Cup squad-have left his future uncertain.

What’s behind the Foden-to-Milan link?

According to Claudio Raimondi of SportMediaset, via MilanNews.it, an intermediary has floated Foden’s name to multiple clubs, including Milan. The Rossoneri are weighing the move seriously, with Leao’s potential departure creating a funding route. City’s asking price sits at €50-60m, an amount Milan believe could be covered by selling Leao, whose own exit talks are advancing with Tottenham keen.

Wages present little hurdle. Both players earn €7-7.5m per season, making the swap almost financially neutral. But two dominoes must fall first: Leao’s move, and City landing a marquee replacement-Enzo Fernández is their preferred target.

Why Foden fits Milan’s post-Leao rebuild

Milan’s interest underscores the calibre they’re targeting for life after Leao. The Portuguese winger’s €50-60m valuation aligns with Foden’s price tag, and his profile matches Milan’s need for creativity in attack. The scenario remains speculative, but the pieces-financially and on paper-could slot together.

Foden, 26, has 20 goals and 15 assists for City this season, per transfermarkt. His omission from England’s World Cup squad in December 2025 underlined his club’s shifting stance, though his output on the pitch remains elite.

What happens next?

For now, this is a proposed name, not a negotiation. Leao’s future is the first variable: his camp wants a European move, and Tottenham’s interest adds pressure on Milan to act. City, meanwhile, won’t sanction Foden’s exit until they secure Fernández-or another top-tier replacement.

The clock is ticking. Foden’s contract expires in 2027, and with no renewal plans, Milan’s window to act could close fast. If Leao departs, Milan’s next move may well be Foden-if City’s price is met and their own transfer plans align.