'Will come back': Journalist claims Chelsea could try again to sign 'relentless' 23-year-old, summer bid rejected
Chelsea could reportedly return with another move for AC Milan star Rafael Leao, according to Gianluca Di Marzio,.
Italian journalist Di Marzio reports that Chelsea failed in the summer transfer window with their bid for Milan’s attacker, with an offer worth between €70million (£61million) and €80million (£69million) rejected.
He claims that the Blues could try again to sign the 23-year-old forward at a later date, though.
Di Marzio explains that Graham Potter’s side could be lining up a move if Milan fail to sort a new contract with Leao, whose current deal is due to expire in 2024.
Chelsea could return for Leao
Sky Italy journalist Di Marzio has provided an intriguing update on Portugal international Leao:
“It is not so, so close. Chelsea decided to offer €70/80million to AC Milan in the last days of the market,” Di Marzio said, as quoted by Football Daily.
“AC Milan could not find a substitute, even if they liked Hakim Ziyech so much. But there was no time to do this deal.
“Now, the problem for AC Milan is the contract. His contract ends in 2024, and if they do not renew the contract in the next few months, I think Chelsea will come back [to try sign Leao].”
Incidentally, Milan boss Stefano Pioli has recently explained he thinks his club plan to offer Leao a new contract soon.
Super talent
Described as “relentless” by Jose Mourinho, Milan star Leao is an incredible player shining at the San Siro.
The winger has started this season in fine form, scoring three goals and making four assists in seven games across all competitions.
He is a rapid wide player with pace, trickery and an eye for goal. Therefore, it’s no big surprise he’s on the Chelsea radar.
New Blues head coach Potter has a few months now working with his squad to try find an attacking formula that helps the team score more goals, something the forwards have struggled with.
However, many fans believe they’ll need more recruits at the top end of the pitch with more proven goalscorers.
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