Transfer Centre

AC Milan step up efforts to keep Chelsea-linked Rafael Leao?

By Darren Plant, Senior Reporter | 18 October 2022

AC Milan step up efforts to keep Chelsea-linked Leao?

AC Milan indicate that they intend to hold discussions with the father of Rafael Leao in order to retain the services of the Chelsea-linked forward.

AC Milan are seemingly prepared to step up their efforts to retain the services of Rafael Leao in the long term.

The 23-year-old has established himself as Milan's key man over the past 14 months, helping I Rossoneri become Serie A champions last season.

Since the beginning of 2021-22, Leao has contributed 15 goals and 15 assists from his 43 appearances in Italy's top flight.

Although his performances are yet to be replicated in the Champions League, the Portugal international is now regarded as one of the top players in European football, naturally leading to interest in his signature.

Milan currently find themselves in a weakening position regarding the forward, however, with just over 20 months remaining on his existing terms.

Chelsea owner and chairman Todd Boehly pictured in the stands on August 27, 2022 © Reuters

While Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain have been linked with a move in recent days, Chelsea are known to be admirers of the versatile attacker and hope to negotiate a deal with Milan during the 2023 summer transfer window, providing that their counterparts at San Siro have not agreed fresh terms with their most prized asset.

According to director Daniele Massaro, that appears to be their priority, the Milan official seemingly hoping to get a new contract over the line before the turn of the year.

Massaro told Sky Sport Italia: "We're confident to reach an agreement with Leao and extend his contract.

"We'll try to find a solution to proceed with Rafa for a long time. His father's here tonight, we'll speak during the dinner".

AC Milan's Rafael Leao celebrates scoring their third goal on September 3, 2022 © Reuters

Massaro was speaking at the Ballon'Dor ceremony in Paris as Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema was crowned as footballer of the year for the first time.

For the first time in his career, Leao was named in the top 25 of the rankings, being named in joint-14th place with Liverpool midfielder Fabinho.

Leao was the highest-ranked player who had participated in Serie A during 2021-22, finishing marginally ahead of Juventus forward Dusan Vlahovic.

France goalkeeper and Milan teammate Mike Maignan was the only other player to feature in Serie A last season who earned a spot in the top 25.