Chelsea have been handed a significant boost in their pursuit of Rafael Leao as top contender PSG have pulled out of the race.
According to Fichjajes, PSG have pulled out of the race for Rafael Leao, thus handing the onus to Chelsea to make their move. The Blues are keen on the 24-year-old attacker, who has a massive release clause of close to €175 million attached to his contract at AC Milan.
Chelsea handed Leao a boost, PSG out of the race
There is a lot of media focus on PSG, who are expected to lose Kylian Mbappe in the summer, and then all eyes will be on who they sign as the Frenchman’s replacement. The idea of replacing the World Cup winner will be a monumental task for the Parisians, with a certain Rafael Leao mentioned as a possible target for some weeks now.
On paper, a move for Leao would make sense from PSG’s perspective, as he is a similar player to Mbappe and with the right profile. However, per many sources, his release clause stands at around €175 million, which could bother PSG and his other suitors. He has proven the hype surrounding him by contributing 17 goals this season.
Also, the report states that PSG are pulling out of the race as they seek a striker first and foremost, which could draw many conclusions considering they already have Goncalo Ramos and Randal Kolo Muani. It indicates they do not wish to exercise the buy option on the former, which would then see them make a big move for someone else.
Should they step away from the Leao chase, Chelsea will be handed a boost in their pursuit of the 24-year-old attacker. There are challenges ahead even if the Blues are keen on paying a premium, something even Manchester City are willing to fork out. However, the Portuguese star loves life at San Siro, and it may seem challenging to convince him to move so soon after signing a new contract.
Chelsea, PSG to battle for Osimhen?
Even if PSG pull out of the Leao chase and hand the onus to Chelsea, the two sides should battle it for another star in the summer. Victor Osimhen has emerged as a critical target for both these clubs, which could see them enter into a transfer tussle.
In truth, either team can only sign one of those stars given their transfer prices, as Chelsea may also prioritise a move for Osimhen over Rafael Leao, similar to PSG. This means that more than Leao, the focus might be on Osimhen heading into the summer window.
