Manchester City are reportedly open to parting ways with Joao Cancelo if it aids their efforts to sign Rafael Leao.
Over the past 18 months, the AC Milan forward has established himself as one of the best players in Serie A, contributing 19 goals and 16 assists in Italy's top flight since the start of 2021-22.
However, the form of the 23-year-old has naturally led to interest from elsewhere, particularly when his contract situation is taken into consideration.
The Portugal international now has less than 18 months remaining on his deal and speculation persists over the next move of his career.
Earlier this month, Milan director Paolo Maldini appeared to be confident that last season's champions would eventually extend Leao's contract.
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Speaking to Mediaset, Maldini said: "We are talking, there are video calls and we don't necessarily have to meet in person. We will try to reach a solution.
"It seems that the two parties want it and now we want to try to close. Our will is there and that of the player seems to exist."
Nevertheless, it appears that Man City are ready to remain involved in trying to negotiate a sale with Milan and tempt Leao to the Etihad Stadium.
According to Calciomercatoweb, City boss Pep Guardiola would be prepared to include Cancelo in a part-exchange deal.
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The versatile full-back has proven to be a key player for City since his transfer in 2019, contributing nine goals and 22 assists from 154 appearances in all competitions.
That said, during 2022-23, the 28-year-old has chipped in with just two strikes and one assist in 17 Premier League outings, and now finds himself being left out of the side to accommodate teenager Rico Lewis.
Although he is largely judged on his defensive qualities, Cancelo has not made an assist or scored a goal since October 8, and it is suggested that he may be allowed to depart the Premier League champions.
Cancelo, who has previously spent time in Italy with Juventus and Inter Milan, still has four-and-a-half years left on his contract.
Darren Plant
