29.08.2026 18:40
Galatasaray's new signing, Portuguese footballer Rafael Alexandre Conceiçao Leao, has arrived in Istanbul. Making statements, the Portuguese star made a striking confession, saying, 'I turned down Aston Villa for Galatasaray.'
Super League giant Galatasaray continues to strengthen its squad as the transfer period approaches its final days.
LEAO AT GALATASARAY
The yellow-reds have added Portuguese footballer Rafael Alexandre Conceiçao Leao to their squad. The 27-year-old footballer arrived in Istanbul to complete transfer negotiations. The private jet carrying the star footballer, who joined the squad from Italian team Milan, landed at Ataturk Airport General Aviation Terminal around 16:00. As Rafael Leao exited through the door after passport controls, fans chanted slogans.
"I AM VERY GRATEFUL TO THEM"
Leao, expressing his feelings to the press members, thanked the yellow-red fans, saying, "I am very grateful to the Galatasaray fans for coming here."
"OSIMHEN AND I ARE GOOD FRIENDS"
Leao, answering the question about Victor Osimhen, said, "Osimhen and I are already good friends. I think we can achieve very good things both in the league and in the Champions League."
"I REJECTED ASTON VILLA"
Regarding Aston Villa's interest during the transfer period, the Portuguese footballer said: "Since June, the president and vice president Jorge were also pushing hard. They worked very hard to make this happen. I rejected Aston Villa for Galatasaray. I am very excited right now. I look forward to playing in the matches with excitement."
HE WILL WATCH THE GOZTEPE MATCH
It has been learned that the Portuguese footballer will follow tonight's match at Galatasaray's home ground against Goztepe from the stands.