"Would be a dream signing for Newcastle" - Journalist drops verdict on £63m-rated PIF target

Newcastle United would be making their “dream signing” if they managed to land AC Milan’s Rafael Leao this summer, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

Eddie Howe guided the Magpies to a mid-table finish under their new owners backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) last season, and is looking to strengthen his squad ahead of the 2022/23 campaign.

Back in early May, Italian outlet La Repubblica reported that Newcastle were one of the frontrunners to sign Leao once the season concluded.

However, the report also claims that French champions PSG are interested in the winger, while Real Madrid are also believed to be keen on adding him to their ranks.

Leao has spent the last three years at San Siro, and still has two years left on his contract with the Rossoneri.

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O’Rourke thinks Leao would be a fantastic addition to Newcastle’s squad, but he expects Milan to do all they can to keep him in Italy.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, O’Rourke said: “I think you’d have to say that would be a dream signing for Newcastle. Rafael Leao, who’s been linked with a number of top clubs in Europe, PSG, Chelsea have all been linked with him. He had a great season for Milan, helping them win the Serie A title, so I’m sure Milan will be doing all they can to keep hold of him. There’s even been talk of tying him down to a new contract as well.”

Prior to last season, some fans may have questioned Leao’s consistency. That is no longer the case.

Leao played a major role in Milan’s title win in 2021/22, registering 11 goals and 10 assists across the course of the campaign.

He also proved that he was a player for the big occasion by stepping up when the pressure was on