According to a report by TuttoMercatoWeb, Manchester City and Chelsea are in a race to sign AC Milan star Rafael Leao. Leao has been one of the main player for Milan since last season. This season he managed to bag six goals and nine assists in 17 games across all competitions.
The Portuguese have caught the eyes of clubs from all over Europe. Manchester City and Chelsea seem to be the first ones to make a move that might lead to a battle to sign him.
Blues are slightly ahead in the race, they would like to include player in the deal who are expected to leave. Most probably Hakim Ziyech, Christian Pulisic, and Armando Broja.
Leao’s contract ends next summer, and Milan would rather consider offers for him than lose him for free.
Chelsea owner Todd Boehly to offer £105million for Leao
Todd Boehly is willing to make an offer of £105million which includes players for the Portuguese star. Meanwhile, Graham Potter has admired Leao’s talent after seeing him against his team in the Champions League.
He said:
“You can see Leao’s quality and skills, it’s obvious. But he is part of a strong team. We have to respect that [he is under contract].
“I’ve been really impressed with Rafael Leao whenever I’ve watched Milan games, he’s a top player.
“In terms of what happens in the future, who knows whether he can do this in the Premier League or not. He’s got the capability, for sure.”
The Italian side are trying to reach an agreement for a new deal with Leao. Milan technical director Paulo Maldini said:
“For the complete development of Rafa, Milan are the best club, in my opinion. He is 20 years old, I remember that at 20 I didn’t have all these certainties.
“Each of us has a different path: I remember feeling the pressure, I would need a pat on the back, a word in difficult times. These guys need support.”
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