Chelsea transfer target Rafael Leao has added yet more fuel to the fire over the potential for a move to Stamford Bridge in the transfer window. The Portugal international has flirted with the idea of a switch to west London on several occasions since being linked.
A huge deal was rumoured over the summer transfer window, but that didn't materialise as his contract continues to dwindle at AC Milan. Since then, Leao has continued to impress in Serie A and now at the World Cup for Portugal, scoring two goals in limited game time.
“You can see Leao’s quality and skills, it’s obvious," Head coach Graham Potter said on the winger when facing him in the Champions League earlier this season. “But he is part of a strong team. We have to respect that [he is under contract].”
READ MORE: Cristiano Ronaldo to Chelsea transfer: Todd Boehly boost, bid rejected, dropped by Portugal
One thing that has been notable since those links have arisen is the budding bromance between the 23-year-old and Chelsea defender Reece James. The latter claimed that Leao was the toughest player he had faced so far, to which he replied: "My bro." on social media.
The AC Milan star would later follow Chelsea's official account on the platform TikTok as one of only a handful of other accounts he follows. In the latest of those hints, Leao has since sent out a public Instagram story to James wishing him a happy birthday - celebrating his 23rd birthday on Thursday, December 8.
"@ReeceJames happy birthday bro. More life." With the pair's continual back and forth, it could hint that it's only a matter of time before they're teammates.
READ NEXT:
Memphis Depay one of three summer transfers Chelsea can secure for Graham Potter in January
Chelsea face regret over summer transfer decision as Real Madrid come to World Cup realisation
Chelsea news: Joao Felix reveals transfer stance as Todd Boehly given Cristiano Ronaldo boost
Cristiano Ronaldo to Chelsea transfer: Todd Boehly boost, bid rejected, dropped by Portugal
Chelsea news and transfers LIVE: Latest news, rumours and gossip from Stamford Bridge
