Milan are expecting to receive offers for star forward Rafael Leao from Chelsea and Manchester City in January, reports suggest.
The 23-year-old Portuguese forward has continued to shine under Stefano Pioli this season, scoring six goals and providing nine assists in 17 appearances across Serie A and the Champions League. Leao’s impressive performances on the pitch have seen him attract the attention of many top clubs and now things are set to heat up.
As detailed by TMW, Chelsea are ready to submit an offer for Leao in January, keen to get ahead of their competition for the Milan star. A Blues director spoke directly with the Portuguese winger months ago to explain the new Todd Boehly project and the player has started to develop a friendship with some members of Chelsea’s squad.
Chelsea could try to include some players like Armando Broja or Hakim Ziyech to try and lower the overall costs of a deal, which’ll likely be worth around €120m total.
Manchester City have also been keeping a close eye on Leao and are expected to submit an offer for him in January, competing with Chelsea for his signature.
The 23-year-old’s contract expires with Milan in 2024 and he hasn’t been willing to pen a new deal yet, wanting to push back negotiations to after the World Cup in Qatar.