Chelsea’s continued interest in Milan’s Rafael Leao for the upcoming season has been reported by Spanish sources. However, it is unlikely that the 24-year-old forward will join a club that is not competing in the UEFA Champions League.
Previously, Chelsea had been linked with a potential move for the Portuguese player in 2022 but failed to meet his €150 million release clause before the close of the summer transfer window.
According to reports from Fichajes, there remains a strong interest from Mauricio Pochettino’s team in acquiring Leao’s services ahead of the 2024 summer transfer window. Nonetheless, given Chelsea’s probable failure to secure Champions League qualification this season, a move to Stamford Bridge is deemed unlikely to entice Leao.
In addition to Chelsea’s interest, Leao has also been associated with potential transfers to Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain.
Having signed a new contract extension until 2028, Leao’s release clause has been increased to €175 million.
In January, Football Italia’s transfer expert Matteo Moretto reported exclusively that Milan are adamant about not selling Leao for anything less than his release clause at the conclusion of the current season.
Throughout the current campaign, Leao, aged 24, has showcased his prowess by tallying eight goals and providing eight assists in 33 appearances across all competitions.