Chelsea could be set to be handed a timeframe in their pursuit of AC Milan star Rafael Leao. The Portugal international has been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge ahead of the January transfer window after the Blues ignited their interest in the attacker.
Leao caught the attention of Europe's top clubs with 14 goals and 12 assists last term for the Rossoneri and he has continued his fine form this season with 16 goal contributions in 20 goals. It's understood that the Blues were linked with a move in the summer but the deal was ruled too late in the window for either party.
Now, with Leao's current deal at the San Siro expiring in June 2024, talk over a possible January deal to Chelsea have continued after the forward's performance in the World Cup. The 23-year-old has scored two goals for Fernando Santos' side in four appearances, with both strikes coming off the bench.
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After following Chelsea's official TikTok account and dropping a hint over a move to the Blues with his 'bromance' with Reece James on Instagram, a report from Italy has claimed AC Milan have set Leao a deadline over signing a new deal at the club.
According to Calcio Mercato, the Serie A champions are keen to know their forward's future by January. Leao will enter the final 18 months of his deal next month and will see his value gradually decrease if a new deal is not agreed.
It's believed the Italian side want £105million for their star forward and will be keen to ensure they acquire most of their valuation. However, should Leao not extend his deal and no offer is made in January, he could become significantly cheaper in the summer.
One advantage that Chelsea could utilise in their negotiations is the future of Hakim Ziyech. The Blues attacker has become out of favour under Graham Potter this season and seems to be edging closer to an exit. AC Milan have been credited with interest and reports from Italy have claimed they are preparing a loan move.
Should Potter approve Ziyech's exit, Todd Boehly could use the Moroccan to reduce the asking price of Leao in January to ensure both parties leave the deal happy.
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