Another transfer window means more links between Chelsea and Rafael Leao. But this summer, Leao looks destined to leave Milan and has now made that clear in public.
It has been seven years since Milan spent big to sign a Portuguese wonderkid from Lille named Leao. Eight goals in 26 senior Lille appearances convinced Milan to make a £30m move and sign the winger.
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He has since gone on to become a modern-day Milan icon. Just nine games shy of 300 appearances for the Italian club, Leao has scored 80 goals for the Serie A giants and laid on an impressive 65 assists.
For years, Chelsea have been linked with signing Leao, but nothing has ever come to fruition. Milan have always been desperate to keep Leao, and the former Lille star has never wanted to go. Now, it’s different.
Rafael Leao confirms he wants to leave AC Milan this summer
It has been a difficult season for Milan. A seventh-placed finish means Milan only managed to achieve Conference League qualification, while Leao was sporadically booed by his own supporters during 25-26.
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Linked with Chelsea again ahead of the summer window, Milan are said to be open to the cut-price sale of just £50m. Now, Leao himself has told Portuguese media, as per Fabrizio Romano, he wants to go.
“I’m proud as I made history at AC Milan but I want new chapter. I feel ready to play in another league. I did my best for Milan, but it’s time to try another challenge,” Leao said, as posted by Romano on X.
Which clubs are likely to be interested in signing Leao?
There is no doubt that Chelsea will be monitoring developments and retain an interest in signing Leao. Now 27, Leao is experienced, and Chelsea want players who can help guide the squad’s young stars.
Chelsea will have Jesse Derry, Estevao, and Geovany Quenda going into the new season. Three teenagers who need an older head to help guide them. The Blues are also said to be in the market for a winger.
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Leao fits the bill, without a doubt. His form this season is a clear indicator of a player that needs a fresh start. But other Premier League clubs are likely to be monitoring Leao’s situation at Milan this summer.
Leao himself has said he follows both Man United and Arsenal. The Gunners will want a left-sided wide man, while Newcastle need to replace Anthony Gordon and Aston Villa might also show some interest.
Mo Salah is leaving Liverpool and that presents another possible suitor for Leao. Whether Chelsea can finally get their man, having chosen to sign Mykhailo Mudryk over him, remains to be seen this summer.
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