Liverpool will reportedly challenge Premier League rivals Chelsea for the signature of AC Milan attacker Rafael Leao.
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, as relayed by Milan News, FA Cup holders Liverpool have entered the race for AC Milan star Rafael Leao, amidst massive interest in him from Chelsea.
The Portuguese international has firmly established himself as one of Serie A’s top talents and played a crucial role in Milan’s 2021/22 Scudetto-winning campaign. Leao was named the Serie A MVP last season, a firm indictment of his performances over the course of the campaign.
As things stand, Leao’s contract at San Siro expires in 2024. The Rossoneri are keen to keep him on, but as of yet, no agreement has been struck regarding a contract extension. The closer we get to the summer of 2024, the lesser leverage Milan will have in any potential transfer negotiations.
A left-winger who can also play up front, Leao is a dynamic player whose directness sows chaos in the opposition’s defence. Liverpool went big on Luis Diaz last season, and the Colombian is today the club’s first-choice left-winger.
While adding him to the squad will spruce up Jurgen Klopp’s options in attack, he will not come cheap. The Reds already have Diogo Jota and Fabio Carvalho, both of whom can do a job on the left. Liverpool going big to land the 24-year-old will make headlines, but it is an unnecessary expenditure.
Where Klopp needs to reinforce his squad is in midfield, an area that has been crying out for reinforcements and an infusion of youth. The money earmarked for Leao can be put to better use here by Liverpool.
Chelsea, under Todd Boehly, have made no secret of their ambitions and are ready to splash the cash on top names. Leao was on their radar last summer, but all the efforts came to nothing. Christian Pulisic and Hakim Ziyech have both failed to meet expectations, and the Blues could do with a dominant presence on the wings.
Milan and Leao appear keen to renew their partnership, making it difficult for any interested parties to make their move. However, until the 23-year-old pens a deal, there is always the chance that the right offer could turn his head.
