Why Bayern Munich prefer Nico Williams to Milan star Rafael Leao

Originally posted on Football Italia | By Lorenzo Bettoni | Last updated Jun 20, 2025 5:19 AM ET

Christian Falk reports that Bayern Munich executives believe Nico Williams is a better option than Milan star Rafael Leao as the Portuguese ‘doesn’t contribute as effectively with his defensive work.’

Bayern Munich are looking for a new left winger, and according to transfer expert Christian Falk, Milan ace Leao is among their targets.

Bayern prefer Nico Williams to Leao

Leao, however, is not the primary name on the Bavarian’s list as they believe Athletic Club and Spain star Nico Williams would be an ideal signing.

“FC Bayern still can’t agree on which player is best for the club. Nico Williams is still the ideal number one signing. They think Leão doesn’t contribute as effectively with his defensive work,” Falk wrote in his latest column for Bayerninsider.

“Barcola is hard to get; PSG don’t want to sell him.”

Matthäus believes Bayern Munich should sign Leao

Former Inter and Bayern Munich star Lothar Matthäus, however, feels Leao would be a better fit than Nico Willians as the Portuguese star has even more potential than he has been allowed to show at Milan so far.

According to Matthäus, Leao’s versatility is also a plus as the Milan star can play as a left winger or as a centre forward, potentially becoming a backup option for Harry Kane.

Leao has a €175m clause in his contract with Milan. He scored 12 goals and provided 13 assists in 50 appearances for Milan during the 2024-25 season.

This article first appeared on Football Italia and was syndicated with permission.

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