AC Milan star ‘goes from Messi to Heskey real quick’ as he runs past whole Newcastle team… before embarrassing blunder
RAFAEL LEAO went from "Messi to Heskey" after making an incredible run during AC Milan's Champions League clash with Newcastle.
The 24-year-old received the ball just outside of Nick Pope's penalty area before skipping past three Newcastle defenders in the 34th minute of the match.
But just as he set himself up for the strike, the ball got stuck under his feet and he subsequently tripped over.
Fans took to social media to react to Leao's incredible skill and terrible shot, with one person tweeting: "Leao went from Messi to Heskey real quick there 😂."
Another added: "Don’t know how Leao didn’t score from that run…"
A third wrote: "Rafael Leao did everything but score against Newcastle 😂.";
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Another fan questioned: "What is Leao doing here?"
While a fifth commented: "Leao thinks he’s Messi."
Leao has been heavily linked with a move to the Premier League over the past year.
Both Chelsea and Manchester City considered a swoop for the Portugal international.
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Paris Saint-Germain also considered him as a replacement for Lionel Messi, who joined Inter Miami this summer.
However, his contract - which was extended to 2028 in June - now reportedly has a huge £152million release clause, meaning several clubs have been priced out of a potential deal.
AC Milan dominated the first half of their opening Champions League match against Newcastle, while Eddie Howe's side struggled to create any meaningful chances.
And neither side could find a breakthrough after the break as Newcastle held on for a valuable point.