Chelsea are willing to offer £88m to bring AC Milan forward Rafael Leao to the Premier League, according to reports.
The Lowdown: Qatar talks held
The Portuguese international has now entered the final 18 months of his contract at the San Siro, meaning that the Serie A giants could potentially be looking to cash in this summer.
Sky Sports reporter Florian Plettenberg reported that the Blues held talks regarding a move for the 23-year-old during the World Cup in Qatar, though a move failed to materialise in January.
The Milan winger also briefly followed the club on social media, hinting that he’s keen to work under Graham Potter, who could be about to take a second bite of the cherry.
The Latest: Chelsea readying Leao bid
According to Spanish reports (via Sportskeeda), Chelsea are ‘willing to spend’ €100m (£88m) to sign Leao this summer.
The Stamford Bridge outfit are ‘interested’ in Stefano Pioli’s talisman but are set to face stiff competition from top-flight rivals Manchester City.
The Almada native will only be allowed to depart for a sizeable sum, with the fee above the ‘minimum’ required to sanction a sale.
The Verdict: Splash the cash
Leao has been hailed a ‘difference-maker’ by talent scout Jacek Kulig and Chelsea should definitely splash the cash to secure his services this summer.
The Milan attacker has racked up 14 goal contributions (eight goals and six assists) in 22 Serie A outings this season, where he’s currently averaging 2.9 shots per game.
This form has seen him bag five man-of-the-match awards in all competitions, not forgetting his versatility having operated as a second striker and in midfield alongside his natural position out wide.
Leao ranks in the 95th percentile for successful take-ons and this kind of direct threat is exactly what the Blues need, making this a no-brainer of a deal to complete should the opportunity arise.
