According to Fanatik, Rafael Leao has decided to leave Milan after having conflicts with nearly everyone at the club and following a strong reaction to being substituted by his coach. He has asked his manager to consider all offers. Galatasaray have acted quickly, granting full authority to Italian agent Gardi, who will use his local connections to persuade Leao and secure the most favorable deal for the club. Club president Dursun Özbek and the technical staff have approved the move for Leao.

Galatasaray are said to have a serious interest in strengthening their squad by targeting players from Serie A, including Rafael Leão. According to MilanNews.it, the Turkish club's interest is real, but a transfer during the winter window is considered very difficult. Milan does not consider Leão a player they intend to sell, Galatasaray has not yet approached his entourage, and the forward is not considering a move.