Rafael Leao names Ronaldinho, Ronaldo & Kaka as inspiration behind AC Milan move as winger reveals he rejected Inter offer despite being told ‘we need to sell you’

The Portugal international admitted his childhood admiration for stars such as Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, Kaka and Clarence Seedorf meant there was only one club he wanted to join. Milan’s European pedigree, including seven Champions League titles, made his decision clear when it came to choosing between the Rossoneri and Inter.

Speaking on the Say Less podcast Leao revealed how close he came to signing for Inter while at Lille. He said: "I was about to go to Inter, crazy. The sporting director [of Lille] told me: 'Rafa, we are about to sell you to Inter', I said: 'no, I did very well this season, I want to stay another season to improve further and increase my confidence for the next challenge'. But he told me: 'No, no, I have to sell you, it's an excellent opportunity for you, for us, it's a lot of money'. But I said no to Inter."

He added: "Since I was a child, Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, Kaka, Seedorf, those players you saw or heard about, were history. Then you know, seven Champions Leagues, only Real Madrid has more. Between Milan and Inter, Milan a hundred times."

The 25-year-old has been unavailable since suffering a calf injury against Bari in the Coppa Italia on August 17, a game where he scored. Last season he managed 12 goals and 13 assists in 50 appearances, underlining his importance to Milan’s attack. His absence has left Allegri’s side relying on Christian Pulisic and Santiago Gimenez in their recent Serie A run.

The Rossoneri will first aim to progress in the Coppa Italia against Leece before preparing for the big clash against reigning champions Napoli. Allegri confirmed Leao is not yet ready, but his fitness will be assessed this week as Milan hope their star winger can return in time for the high-profile Serie A showdown.