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Rafael Leao has reportedly been offered to Chelsea after Arsenal decided against pursuing the AC Milan winger. The 27-year-old has been with Milan since 2019 but now appears ready for a new challenge, with a move to the Premier League reportedly appealing to him.
Rafael Leao looks for Premier League move
As reported by The Sun, Leao has decided that the time is right to leave AC Milan after several years with the Italian club. Arsenal were reportedly interested in signing the Portugal international earlier in the transfer window. However, the Gunners eventually moved for Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge instead. Leao’s situation has now opened the possibility of a move to Chelsea. The winger could become an option for the Blues as they consider their attacking plans for the new season.
Chelsea consider Leao as Neto replacement
Chelsea’s interest is linked to the possibility of Pedro Neto leaving Stamford Bridge. Neto has reportedly been valued at around £100 million, while Leao’s estimated price is significantly lower at around £34 million. Leao made it clear earlier this summer that he wanted to move to the Premier League. The Portuguese winger has also spoken about his desire for a new challenge after winning two trophies in Italy. Leao played in all five of Portugal’s matches at the 2026 World Cup before they were eliminated in the Round of 16. He also scored once during the tournament, finding the net against Uzbekistan.
Rafael Leao’s AC Milan stats for the 2025/26 season, as per FOTMOB:
Competition Appearances Goals Assists Chances Created
Serie A 29 9 3 23
Coppa Italia 2 1 0 1
Chelsea Football Stadium - Stamford Bridge
Chelsea Football Stadium - Stamford Bridge
Leao’s Milan future uncertain
Leao scored nine goals in 29 appearances for AC Milan last season. The Italian club finished fifth in Serie A and missed out on Champions League football, adding further uncertainty around the winger’s future. Milan have now appointed former Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim as they look to rebuild and return to the top of Italian football. However, that project could continue without Leao if Chelsea or another club makes a suitable offer.
For Chelsea, Leao could add pace, dribbling and experience to Xabi Alonso’s attack. After finishing 10th last season, the Blues will want a more consistent campaign. With Leao open to a move to England and valued at around £34 million, Chelsea could see him as an affordable option if they need to replace Neto.
Chelsea would still need to work out where Leao fits into Alonso’s plans. The Portuguese is best used out on the left where he can utilise his pace and ability on the ball to give the team another option going forward. His experience would be an asset in a squad with several young players.
Leao knows the highest level, having played for Milan and Portugal and competed in Serie A and at international tournaments like the FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro. There is no agreement in place at this stage but Chelsea could become a serious option if they decide to explore the deal. Leao’s reported desire to play in the Premier League could also make talks easier.
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