‘I want him to stay’: Manager suggests he really doesn’t want to sell his 23-year-old to Chelsea

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AC Milan manager Stefano Pioli has stated his intent to keep hold of Rafael Leao amidst reported intrigue from Chelsea.

Fabrizio Romano quoted Pioli’s desire to tie down striker and hopefully fend off interest from Todd Boehly.

Leao is apparently on Boehly’s transfer wish list, as he searches for options to boost Graham Potter’s faltering front line.

Milan’s ferocious forward has proven to be a threat in the final third, both in terms of scoring and assisting.

He has already contributed 16 goals so far this season for the Rossoneri, and rippled the net once in the World Cup group stage for Portugal.

Ironically, the only club he failed to score or assist against in the Champions League was Chelsea.

But this clearly hasn’t prevented Boehly from focusing his attention on the 23-year-old.

Chelsea set to chase Rafael Leao

The Stamford Bridge owner is not one to bow down from a fight when he thinks a player might be available to the market.

His tussle with the chain of command at the San Siro could be one to look out for in the summer.

Pioli will understandably attempt to resist any attempts from South West London to steal his second top scorer in Serie A this term.

“He’s really happy with us, it’s clear. (Paulo) Maldini & Rafa’s camp are in negotiations,” said the Milan boss.

“We’re waiting for good news. He’s happy with Milan, I want him to stay”.

Leao’s contract doesn’t expire until 2024, but the added protection of a renewal may fend off Chelsea.

Especially if it increases his value, which currently stands at a reported £105m.

Boehly might have to sell a few of Potter’s senior players to not only fund such an extravagant deal, but also make room in the squad for another attacker.

Hakim Ziyech and Christian Pulisic are two being touted to make way, with the former even being linked with a move to Milan.