Aston Villa open talks to sign Portuguese winger as he green lights Premier League move

Aston Villa have made an ambitious late move for Rafael Leao, with talks now underway with AC Milan over a potential deal for the Portugal international.

The 27-year-old has been linked with a Milan exit throughout the summer, but Villa have suddenly emerged as serious contenders during the final days of the window.

Aston Villa in talks with AC Milan for Leao

According to Gianluca Di Marzio, Aston Villa have stepped up their pursuit of Leao and are now in direct contact with Milan as the two clubs attempt to agree a valuation.

Crucially, the player has also opened the door to joining Villa.

Jorge Mendes has been involved in bringing the parties together, and Champions League football is believed to make the move attractive to Leao.

The main issue is price. Milan have been reluctant to lower their demands significantly, but Sky Sport Italia reports that negotiations are active and that Leao is closer than ever to leaving San Siro.

The report confirms that Villa are serious and that the next step is finding common ground over the transfer fee.