Leeds United Agree Swap Deal with AC Milan to Sign Alexis Saelemaekers in Exchange for Ethan Ampadu
Leeds United have reached an agreement with AC Milan over a high-profile swap deal that will see Belgian winger Alexis Saelemaekers move to Elland Road, with versatile midfielder-defender Ethan Ampadu heading in the opposite direction to the San Siro.
The deal, which has been in discussion for several weeks, is understood to be nearing final completion pending medicals and final paperwork.Sources close to both clubs indicate that the agreement suits the sporting needs of each side, with Leeds targeting attacking reinforcements ahead of the new campaign, while Milan are keen to add depth and tactical flexibility to their midfield and defensive unit.Saelemaekers, 26, has long been admired by Leeds’ recruitment team for his work rate, tactical intelligence, and ability to operate across multiple attacking positions. Primarily a right winger, the Belgian international is also comfortable playing as a wing-back or advanced midfielder, a versatility that aligns well with Leeds’ high-intensity style of play.
The former Anderlecht man joined AC Milan in 2020 and played a key role during the club’s Serie A title-winning season in 2021–22. While he has not always been a guaranteed starter in recent seasons, Saelemaekers remains highly regarded within Italian football for his pressing ability, defensive discipline, and experience at the highest level, including in the UEFA Champions League.For Leeds United, the signing represents a statement of intent. After narrowly missing out on key objectives last season, the club is determined to strengthen areas that lacked creativity and consistency in the final third.
Saelemaekers is expected to bring balance to the attack, providing width, intelligent movement, and a relentless engine that suits the demands of English football.Managerial sources suggest that Leeds see the Belgian as an immediate starter, capable of contributing both goals and assists while also helping defensively against stronger opposition.
His experience in a title-winning Milan side is viewed as a valuable asset for a Leeds squad blending youth with seasoned professionals.
On the other side of the deal, AC Milan will welcome Ethan Ampadu, whose adaptability and leadership qualities have impressed scouts across Europe.
The Welsh international, who captained Leeds during key moments last season, has been a cornerstone of the club’s defensive structure, operating effectively both as a centre-back and a holding midfielder.
Ampadu’s composure on the ball, positional awareness, and ability to read the game have made him an attractive option for Milan, who are looking to bolster their squad with players capable of fitting into multiple tactical systems. With Milan competing on several fronts domestically and in Europe, Ampadu’s versatility is expected to provide valuable depth and rotation options.The move also represents a significant step in Ampadu’s career.
A transfer to Serie A giants AC Milan offers the opportunity to compete regularly at the highest level, challenge for trophies, and gain experience in one of Europe’s most tactically demanding leagues. Milan’s coaching staff reportedly believe Ampadu has the intelligence and discipline required to thrive in Italian football.Financially, the deal is structured as a straight swap with no significant cash adjustment, reflecting the similar market valuations of both players. This arrangement allows both clubs to strengthen without impacting their immediate transfer budgets, a factor that played a crucial role in negotiations.
Fans from both sides have reacted with mixed emotions. Leeds supporters acknowledge Ampadu’s importance and leadership but are optimistic about the attacking boost Saelemaekers could provide. Milan fans, meanwhile, are hopeful that Ampadu’s arrival will address long-standing issues in squad depth and defensive consistency.If finalized as expected, the swap deal could be announced officially within days. Medical examinations are scheduled, and personal terms have reportedly been agreed in principle with both players.
As the new season approaches, this exchange may prove to be a defining moment for both clubs — Leeds gaining a dynamic attacker to fuel their ambitions, and AC Milan securing a reliable, versatile performer ready to contribute on Europe’s biggest stage.
