Chelsea are reportedly confident of their chances of landing AC Milan talisman Rafael Leao.
According to 90min, Premier League giants Chelsea are confident they can secure the signing of Portuguese international Rafael Leao from Serie A giants AC Milan.
The Rossoneri talisman has been a pivotal player for the Italian champions and was instrumental in the Scudetto win last season. The reigning Serie A MVP, Leao certainly caught the attention of Europe’s big teams.
The 23-year-old was on Chelsea’s radar last summer as Todd Boehly sought to make a splash in the transfer market. However, it was not to be and he stayed put at the San Siro. Despite not reaching the same heights as that of the last campaign, Leao continues to impress as Chelsea ponder another approach.
The Blues are confident they can lure the Portuguese international away from Serie A. Landing him will be a shot in the arm for Graham Potter as he seeks to rebuild the team. More so, it will also add impetus to a side that is sorely lacking imagination in the final third.
AC Milan are keen to keep their star man and are prepared to make him the highest earner in the Italian top flight. However, their hopes of reaching a consensus before the World Cup have fallen. This has given Chelsea renewed confidence that they could land their man.
Any chance of a deal being completed in January is remote given Milan’s lack of willingness to part with the player. The Blues are well aware of it and are likely to have to wait until the summer of 2023 to make their move.
The Blues lack serious firepower and have struggled to break open opposition defences this season. A revamp of the frontline is the need of the hour, and bringing in Leao is a brilliant way to kick-start the rebuild. Capable of playing out on the wing and also lead the line, the 23-year-old is a dynamic player capable of making a difference in the final third.
Boehly and co remain adamant to restore Chelsea to their pinnacle, and it is essential that they bring in the right players to aid Potter’s cause. Leao isn’t just someone capable of making an instant impact but is also a long-term asset who can become a Premier League mainstay for years to come.
The 23-year-old is currently with the Portugal squad as we count down to the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar. A strong showing at the showpiece event will only further champion Chelsea’s interest in his services. For now, the west Londoners remain confident of prising their top target away from Serie A champions AC Milan.
