Chelsea are reportedly set to battle with Paris Saint-Germain for the signing of AC Milan star Rafael Leao next summer.
The Portuguese international, 23, was heavily linked with a move away from AC Milan in the summer. He is wanted by a host of top-tier European clubs, with Paris Saint-Germain the latest entrant in the race as they seek out replacements for Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe.
According to Tuttosport (h/t Football Italia), AC Milan are trying to work behind the scenes to extend Rafael Leao’s contract, with Chelsea among the clubs interested in revisiting him after failing to poach him earlier in the summer. However, the Blues could face stiff competition from Christophe Galtier’s PSG for the Milan winger, who has £131m release clause in his contract, the report adds.
Leao was one of Milan’s standout players during their title triumph last term and has started the new season in an impressive manner, registering four goals and as many assists in eight Serie A games thus far. Stefano Pioli is a huge admirer of the Portuguese and, with a host of clubs vying for his signature, the Rossoneri may find it difficult to keep hold of him next year.
Rafael Leao to Chelsea—Right option for the Blues?
Rafael Leao has become one of Serie A’s most exciting players in the last 15-18 months, catching the eye with his flair, dribbling skills, speed, creativity and goal-scoring ability. He was excellent last season for Milan, playing a key role in ending the club’s hunt for the Scudetto for almost a decade.
The Portuguese international has been prolific in front of the goal as he has averaged 4.4 shots, 2 key passes, 2.6 long balls, 0.1 through balls and 1.9 dribbles per game in Serie A this term. He has also been tidy while distributing the ball after completing 80.5% of his attempted passes (stats courtesy: WhoScored).
A versatile forward, Leao can play anywhere across the front line but is most effective when operating down the left and cutting onto his right foot to create opportunities for his teammates or going for a pop from distance. Due to his lanky frame, he can win aerial duels against his opponents and hold the ball easily while the burst of pace allows him to make clever runs in behind the defence.
The 23-year-old has improved various facets of his game under Pioli’s tutelage and, even though he has become more composed in front of goal and decisive in the final third, there is still a lot of room for improvement.
One can expect Rafael Leao to bring assists, goals and much-needed variety to Chelsea’s attack and increase competition for places within their squad. At the moment, Leao is brimming with confidence and could become a long-term asset for the Blues if Graham Potter can find a way to win the race for his services in 2023.
