Chelsea is still active at the end of the transfer window. According to our sources, the Blues have held talks with AC Milan about bringing Portuguese attacker Rafael Leao to Stamford Bridge this summer. Sources stated earlier this summer that Chelsea were among the clubs interested in Leao, 23, who was crowned Serie A’s finest player last season after scoring 11 goals and making 10 assists in Milan’s title-winning season. The Blues have been in contact with Leao’s representatives ever since and, according to our information, discussions between the two clubs have taken place in the final weeks of this transfer window.
Milan, on the other hand, has made it obvious that they do not want Leao to go this summer. At the end of last season, club director Paolo Maldini labeled the striker “unsellable” and drew attention to his €150 million release clause. Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid both expressed interest in Leao earlier this year, but quickly pulled out when the cost of a summer deal became apparent. Milan want to offer Leao a new contract which would significantly increase the release clause and give the Portugal international a huge pay rise as a strong signal after winning the Serie A title.
Aubameyang and Gordon soon at the Blues?
As for Chelsea, the club are continuing to negotiate with Barcelona for the signing of 33-year-old Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang at the request of Blues manager Thomas Tuchel, who is seeking to reunite with his former Borussia Dortmund striker. Aubameyang is considered a short-term signing and Chelsea are therefore looking for a younger option to lead the forward line in the future.
Erling Haaland was in the Blues’ crosshairs before their transfer ban prevented them from competing with Manchester City for his signature – a duel they might not have won anyway – and now Leao, 23, has many admirers at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea are also in negotiations with Everton about a deal for Anthony Gordon and are hopeful that one can be reached. According to Sky Sports, an offer of 70 million euros has been offered.