Rafael Leao looks set to leave AC Milan this summer, with the Portugal winger making it clear he wants a new challenge and Chelsea are likely to be among his suitors.
Xabi Alonso is likely to be scouring the market alongside Chelsea’s quintet of sporting directors for a new left-sided winger. It comes after both Alejandro Garnacho and Jamie Gittens endured difficult seasons.
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Geovany Quenda can play on both flanks, but is better off the right and is likely to battle Estevao and Pedro Neto for that role. Chelsea could really do with an experienced superstar on the left of the attack.
Rafael Leao has been linked with Chelsea again this summer. The former Lille ace is said to be keen on a move to the Premier League this summer and then, over the weekend, he has stated his desire to leave.
Rafael Leao’s camp begins the process of AC Milan exit
It has been seven years since Leao joined Milan from Lille and in that time, the 27-year-old has clocked up an impressive 291 appearances. In that time, Leao has had a hand in 145 goals for the Serie A giants.
Speaking to Portuguese media, Leao has expressed his desire to try something new. It comes after being booed by the home support at times during the 2025-26 season, with his form beginning to die off.
Lecce v AC Milan - Serie A
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Now, TeamTalk say Leao’s camp have already responded to their client’s comments by putting feelers out to potentially interested clubs. Chelsea have been contacted by Leao’s camp ahead of the summer.
However, Chelsea are not the only side subject to a phone call from Leao’s agents. Arsenal and Liverpool have also been contacted, while Man United are said to be doing background work on the Milan star.
How much do AC Milan want for Rafael Leao this summer?
There were at times, over the last few years, that Leao was touted as one of the best wingers in European football. The attacker has made it clear that he not only wants to leave Milan, but to try a new league.
The Premier League looks the likeliest move for Leao and TeamTalk say Milan are willing to sell for just £43m this summer. A cheap-ish fee for a player who is entering the peak years of his footballing career.
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Xabi Alonso's priority as Chelsea manager
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Chelsea are certainly in with a shout, given they would make Leao a regular member of the starting XI. Arsenal also want a left-winger but he will have competition and the same goes for Manchester United.
Liverpool need to replace Mo Salah, but the Egyptian has earned iconic status from the right. The only thing that may disrupt a potential Chelsea move for Leao is the lack of European football next season.
However, Chelsea are certainly in the mix and if he has been offered to Chelsea, it suggests that he is open to moving to West London this summer. Xabi Alonso’s stance on Leao remains unclear.
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