Chelsea are reportedly interested in signing Portuguese forward Rafael Leao from AC Milan ahead of next season.
According to a report by Calciomercatoweb, Chelsea have their eyes set on Rafael Leao. The 23-year-old Portuguese has had an impressive last few seasons in Italy and has attracted a lot of attention. The Blues are interested in having his services ahead of next season.
Rafael Leao’s contract situation at AC Milan has not been that great. His current contract ends in the summer of 2024. And, despite Milan’s attempt to pen down a deal with the 23-year-old, nothing concrete has happened as of now. The contract talks have been put on hold for a while.
With just around 15 months left in his contract, AC Milan might not have many options. While they will still try to extend his contract but that looks unlikely. As a result, their best bet would be to sell the Portuguese ace for a big amount like €150 million rather than lose out on him for free.
Leao has been on fire ever since he joined them from LOSC Lille back in the summer of 2019. He has made 147 appearances for the Rossoneri and has 67 goal involvements. The Portuguese winger has been impressive this season, with 19 goal involvements in 32 appearances. He is relatively young and has the potential to be a special player. His performances of late have attracted a lot of attention and he is on the radar of Chelsea.
The Blues have heavily invested in young players ever since Todd Boehly bought the club. They have spent a fortune acquiring young talents from across the globe. And, now they have their eyes on the 23-year-old, who could be on his way in the summer.
While Chelsea already have quite a few wingers in the team, they are likely to offload a few in the summer. Adding Rafael Leao might not be that big a challenge for them. To make things even better they are ready to add Christian Pulisic in a part part-exchange deal.
Pulisic has not had that big a role of late and might be on his way out in the summer. The Blues are willing to involve the 24-year-old in their quest for the Portuguese winger. They are ready to pay close to €100-120 million and are also willing to make Pulisic a part of the deal.
Meanwhile, they will also face a lot of competition from across the globe for the services of Rafael Leao. A lot of clubs across Europe are interested in him. And, despite their financial capabilities and willingness to offer Pulisic, it won’t be an easy deal to strike.
