Stefano Pioli doesn’t expect Rafael Leao to join Chelsea and insists the Portugal striker is making no errors when preparing for games.
The Blues have been strongly linked with the ex-Lille starlet and according to Gazzetta, they could be ready to pay a club-record fee to secure his signature in the final days of the summer transfer window.
Leao has a €150m clause that expired in July and Milan don’t want to part ways with him.
“I am only thinking about the next games, with the players who are currently part of the team,” Pioli said at a press conference.
“Leao must think about improving, I am not coaching him thinking he could leave. On the contrary, Leao is always available and gets nothing wrong while preparing for games.”
Milan and Chelsea will meet in the Champions League group stage.
“We must aim for high-level performances,” said Pioli.
“We should not underestimate any opponent, Real Madrid lost against Sheriff last season, and we are still not Real Madrid. Last season’s experience will help us.”
Another Milan star, Ismael Bennacer, has been linked with a Premier League move, with Liverpool reportedly interested in the Algeria international. Yet again, Pioli doesn’t see him leave and is happy with his recent developments.
“I’ve never had doubts about Isma’s great characteristics, he has always worked with desire and determination. He must continue like this to become a complete midfielder.”
Both Leao and Bennacer see their Milan contracts expire in June 2024. If, as expected, they won’t leave the Rossoneri in the current transfer window, the Rossoneri directors will immediately sit down with them to negotiate new contracts.
What odds would you get on both of them signing for Fulham in summer 2024?