Chelsea have enquired about Rafael Leao’s availability, as AC Milan might be forced to sell if contract negotiations with the player do not conclude soon.
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Chelsea are interested in signing Rafael Leao after enquiring about the attacker recently. The Blues are looking to bring in a wide attacker after failing to sign Raphinha, and the 22-year-old Portuguese forward could depart San Siro after difficult contract talks.
Rafael Leao had a fantastic season with AC Milan, guiding them to the Serie A title and being named Serie A Player of the Season. The 22-year-old attacker justified his credentials on the pitch, but there are concerns about his long-term future at the club.
Things are complicated by Leao’s contractual situation, as talks over a new deal are not progressing well. The Portuguese winger has a €150 million release clause in his contract, which Milan are prepared to reduce with the new agreement to around €90-100 million.
The Serie A champions are also prepared to substantially increase Leao’s salary from €1.5 million to €6 million per season. However, with two years left on his current deal, Milan could be forced to sell the player if he refuses their offer.
The Rossoneri are demanding a huge price from suitors, with Chelsea the only club reportedly tracking the winger. The Blues have enquired about Leao’s availability as they ponder a move in this window. The Premier League giants are still looking for a new wide-attacker after failing to sign Raphinha.
Chelsea are edging closer to signing Raheem Sterling from Manchester City, but they had planned to sign the England international with Raphinha. Hence they have not given up on an bringing in additional winger to join Thomas Tuchel’s team, with many viable options discussed.
The Blues had an agreement in place with Leeds United for Raphinha. However, Barcelona have announced the agreement to sign the Brazilian internatioal, who only wanted to join the Catalan giants. Chelsea have also submitted tentative enquiries for Serge Gnabry but may feel Leao could be an achievable target.
Moreover, the Portuguese international is young and has long-term prospects at any club, compared to Gnabry. Moreover, Sterling is more in the mould of the German international. Hence, a move for Leao makes sense from Chelsea’s perspective. However, if Milan stick to their high asking price, any prospective deal could be in jeopardy. The 22-year-old could be available now, although things could get complicated.
