Chelsea chances of forward snare skyrocket as strained relationship means Serie A stay is not viable
Chelsea now have an increased chance of landing AC Milan forward Rafael Leao due to complications with his contract at the Serie A side.
Leao is unquestionably one of Serie A’s most influential assets. That much was evident as AC Milan won the Italian top division for the first time since 2010/11 last season.
Leao was one of the driving forces in Milan’s triumph. Indeed, the attacker scored 10 goals and provided 11 assists in the league.
This season, he has continued in the form that led Milan to the title. Leao has been directly involved in 10 goals in just 12 league games so far and Milan are currently second.
The 23-year-old has also been on the top of his game in European competition. In the Champions League this season, he has scored one goal and assisted four in six games.
He was directly involved in almost half of Milan’s goals in the group stage, being shy of that mark by one.
Following his sensational period of form, the forward has been the subject of interest from some big teams.
Manchester City and Chelsea are the most heavily-linked sides at the moment. A lot has been made of his potential exit, with varying reports detailing the likelihood of him leaving – some state it is inevitable, while some believe it will not happen.
Leao Milan stay not viable
The latest report on Leao’s future shows that his future is likely going to be away from Milan. That is according to a report from Sky Italia.
It states that there are a couple of reasons for complications. The first is that the Serie A side reportedly owe Leao’s first side, Sporting Lisbon, €19million (approx £16.5million).
That is impacting on Leao’s contract situation, too. The Portuguese is reportedly demanding €9-10million (between £8-9million) a year.
The fact that Milan owe Sporting means Leao is unlikely to receive the contract he wants.
Chelsea chances skyrocketing
With that being said, Chelsea’s chances will have now increased by a lot. Indeed, Leao’s contract is up at the end of 2023, so if he does not pen a new deal, Milan may be forced to sell.
Chelsea should have no problems with offering the star the contract he wants.
As such, it is likely they are in the box seat. The transfer seems even easier if his relationship with Milan is unrepairable, given they will likely want to ship him out; they will need to if he does not sign a contract, so they receive a transfer fee.
Chelsea could benefit, potentially snaring a top player for a below-par fee.
