GdS Highlights ‘What Could Have Been’ as Leao and Ramos Link Up, but Exit Looms for Milan Star

FolioPitch.com – 05 July 2026 | The phrase GdS What could have been Leao and Ramos link up but exit is almost certain perfectly encapsulates the bittersweet reality facing AC Milan fans this week. On Thursday night, Portugal’s Goncalo Ramos scored a crucial winner against Croatia in Euro 2024, beautifully heading home a cross delivered by none other than Rafael Leao. It was a moment that briefly thrilled Milanisti, offering a glimpse of the attacking partnership that could have tormented Serie A next season. Yet, as Gazzetta dello Sport noted in their analysis, that assist may be the last time the two Rossoneri combine at club level, as Leao’s departure from Milan is now all but sealed.

The link-up was a perfect illustration of what Milan had hoped to build after spending a club-record fee to sign Ramos from Benfica earlier this week. The 22-year-old striker’s header showcased his aerial prowess, while Leao’s pinpoint delivery reminded everyone of his world-class ability to create chances. However, the happiness over Ramos’s arrival is tinged with the knowledge that Leao, the team’s No. 10 and most dynamic attacker, is destined to leave this summer. Milan’s management and Leao’s entourage have reportedly agreed that a move is the best course of action, with the player eyeing a Premier League switch.

From a financial perspective, Leao’s assist against Croatia could not have come at a better time for Milan. The club is hoping to bank €60-70 million for the Portuguese winger, and a strong tournament performance—including that assist—will only increase his market value. As Gazzetta highlighted, the assist serves as a timely boost for Milan’s negotiating position. With a Round of 16 clash against Spain on the horizon, another standout display could further inflate Leao’s price tag. The player himself remains fully focused on the Euros, seemingly unperturbed by the swirling transfer rumors.

Several clubs are monitoring Leao’s situation. Manchester United and Tottenham have both expressed interest, though concrete negotiations have yet to advance significantly. Meanwhile, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia have also made inquiries, but Leao’s preference remains a move to England. The prospect of a Premier League career appeals to the 25-year-old, who sees it as the next logical step in his development. The uncertainty over which club will land him does not diminish the fact that his time at Milan is winding down.

GdS What could have been Leao and Ramos link up but exit is almost certain is a sentiment that resonates deeply within the Milan fanbase. The rarity of seeing two Milan players combine for Portugal—a national team that may not often feature them together—underscores the feeling of missed opportunity. For a club that has invested heavily in Ramos, the absence of Leao to feed him crosses will be a significant loss. Yet, the reality of modern football means that elite talents often move on when the right offer arrives.

In his post-match comments, Ramos downplayed the significance of the assist, instead focusing on Portugal’s victory. But for those watching in Milan, the image of Leao and Ramos celebrating together was a poignant reminder of what might have been. The club’s hierarchy will now shift their attention to reinvesting the expected transfer fee from Leao’s sale, possibly targeting reinforcements in defense and midfield.

As Euro 2024 progresses, all eyes will be on Leao and Ramos, both individually and as a fleeting duo. Their link-up against Croatia was a highlight of the tournament so far, but it also served as a symbol of a partnership that will never truly materialize at San Siro. For GdS What could have been Leao and Ramos link up but exit is almost certain, it is a story of might-have-beens and financial pragmatism.

In conclusion, the brief moment of magic between Leao and Ramos in the Portugal shirt offered Milan fans a tantalizing preview. Yet, with Leao’s exit seemingly inevitable, the club must now look ahead. The funds from his sale will be crucial for building a competitive squad for next season. While the dream of a Leao-Ramos partnership at Milan fades, the memory of that assist will linger as a classic case of what could have been.