In a recent report from Football.London, it was mentioned that Chelsea are looking to sign Rafael Leao from AC Milan when the January transfer window commences. It is understood that the Rossoneri have set a valuation of £87.5 million for the young forward but are willing to sanction his exit if they get an offer in the region of £69 million. However, several European clubs are showing keen interest, with Manchester City and Real Madrid also in the race, in acquiring his signature this January, so the Blues might face heavy competition in the process.
Leao’s Impressive Run of Form This Season
The 23-year-old is having another brilliant campaign in Milan as he has produced several influential displays in the attacking third for the Rossoneri. He has managed to find the back of the net on seven occasions and created six assists appearing in 20 matches for the Italian club this season across all fronts.
The Almada-born talent has been a consistent and reliable performer for AC Milan as he is averaging 3.6 shots, 1.6 key passes and 1.7 dribbles per game in the Serie A. He has even been tidy with his ball distribution, as evidenced by his pass completion rate of 79.4% in the Italian first division (stats via whoscored).
Rafael Leao’s current contract with the Italian outfit lasts until July 2024 and he has made it prevalent that he does not want to continue at Milan beyond his contract which leaves the Serie A club with no choice but to sell him in the upcoming transfer windows.
Is Leao A Decent Fit For Chelsea Boss Graham Potter?
Leao has been a reliable performer at San Siro; he has proven his worth as a prolific winger who can find the back of the net and set up his teammates in front of the goal. He was the second-highest scorer for Portugal in the 2022 FIFA World Cup despite coming off the bench which makes it evident that he has the potential to become one of the best in Europe.
The Portuguese sensation excels at getting out of tight situations and can cause a lot of problems for his marker out in the wide areas. However, Leao would have to settle for lesser game time compared to being a regular for the Rossoneri if he chooses to join the Blues as Graham Potter already has several attacking options at his disposal.
At 23, Leao’s best years are ahead of him which makes him a decent fit for Chelsea. However, life in the Premier League is tough and it will take time for the Portugal international to adapt to those standards. If he can go forward with the same discipline and doesn’t sustain any injury over the coming years then he could be a brilliant addition to Potter’s attacking department at Stamford Bridge.
