Journalist Alvise Cagnazzo has claimed in his Mail Online column that Graham Potter is in love with the idea of signing Rafael Leao for Chelsea.
The Blues have reportedly been interested in signing the winger since this summer, however failed to get close to the fee requested by AC Milan.
It doesn’t appear as if their interest has faded however, with the club undoubtedly keeping a close eye on him during the World Cup.
While he normally only appeared off the bench, the 23-year-old certainly impressed in his cameos, scoring in both the group stages and knockout rounds.
Patrice Evra is one of many pundits who praised the Portugal man during the tournament, describing him as ‘unbelievable’.
Potter wants Leao
Reports have claimed that the Blues are still firmly interested in a deal, with it being claimed they have had a first bid rejected.
The move may be even more likely after Cagnazzo has claimed it has the backing of the new manager at Stamford Bridge.
He said: “The Premier League is the ideal destination for Leao, perfectly suiting his technical and tactical attributes. It would be an oasis that would allow him to become the best Portuguese player on the planet after Ronaldo.
“What’s more, Chelsea boss Potter is in love with Leao and he will make an effort to persuade the club’s hierarchy to put in a bid.”
Potter has already had a front row seat to a couple of Leao performances this season, although he will have been more impressed by the displays of Reece James facing off against him.
With Christopher Nkunku expected to join next summer, the Blues could be set for a completely revolutionised attack going forwards under the new manager, with the current crop very much underperforming this season.
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