The future of Rafael Leao is shaping up as the defining story of AC Milan's summer. Galatasaray have moved from interest to action, submitting a formal offer of €35 million, which Milan rejected outright, according to GOAL's transfer report. The club is holding out for around €60 million, and owner Cardinale remains open to selling despite recent signals from both Leao and manager Ruben Amorim suggesting the player could stay. That tension sits at the heart of Milan's transfer window: Amorim has made clear he wants a left-footed attacking midfielder to complete his 3-4-2-1, and the club's ability to move in the market depends largely on selling Leao first.

On the pitch, Milan drew 1-1 with Inter in a pre-season derby in Perth, a match played in tribute to the late Franco Baresi, whose passing on July 31 brought the football world together in mourning. Nkunku converted a late penalty to cancel out Dimarco's opener, with Gonçalo Ramos making his first appearance in rossonero off the bench. Leao also came on and looked eager to impress, a detail that adds an intriguing layer to the ongoing transfer speculation.

In the striker picture, Santiago Gimenez remains sidelined with an ankle injury sustained at the World Cup, leaving Ramos and Francesco Camarda competing for the starting role. Milan face Chelsea on August 8 in their next pre-season fixture, with the Serie A season approaching fast and key squad decisions still unresolved.