Report: Chelsea willing to offer €120 million plus counterpart to sign Italian star
According to reports in Italy, Chelsea are ‘on alert’ for AC Milan forward Rafael Leao, willing to offer up to €120 million plus a player in exchange.
Chelsea was interested in the Serie A MVP from the previous season in the summer, but negotiations fell through.
However, The Blues were offered €150 million by AC Milan throughout the transfer window, eliminating any chance of a summer transfer.
Leao was not acquired by Chelsea during the window, according to Paolo Maldini.
He said: “An official offer from Chelsea never arrived, but on an informal level it did.
“Of course, it was refused.”
It remains to be seen as to whether the Blues will make another move for Leao in the future.
La Gazzetta dello Sport have revealed that contract negotiations are stalling.
The forward is asking for €7 million a year to extend his deal.
His current deal expires in 2024, while there are further problems with his contract talks.
He wants AC Milan to contribute in some way to the €19 million owed to Sporting CP together with Lille.
If not, Leao will have to help contribute to this fee.
This reportedly means that Chelsea are ‘on alert’ over the situation.
However, The Blues are willing to offer an amount worth €120 million, with the potential of ‘some counterparts included’.
AC Milan were previously interested in Hakim Ziyech, but it remains to be seen as to whether he will be offered.