Arsenal and Chelsea's pursuit of AC Milan winger Rafael Leao appears to be over for now as the Portuguese international has announced a new contract at the club. The forward has been the subject of plenty of transfer interest, with his deal previously only running until 2024.
The 23-year-old has enjoyed his rise to fame with the Rossoneri as last season he helped end Juventus' dominance in Serie A by guiding his side to the Scudetto. While there have been some struggles for the Milan side this campaign, 23 league goal involvements in 34 appearances has shown a healthy return.
One goal and five assists in the Champions League also saw the winger guide the team to a Champions League semi-final, where his absence was sorely felt in two-legged defeat to Inter Milan. With the expiring contract, there has naturally been some interest in landing Leao.
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Arsenal have been one of the sides linked as they look to add a forward to their ranks this summer, with the winger likened to former star Thierry Henry. Across London, Chelsea have also been in the mix as they look to solve their goal scoring problems with further additions.
The Blues have previously held talks over landing the winger and there have been plenty of hints over the possibility of such a deal being completed by the player. However, that seems to have been quashed as his agent pushed to make sure a new contract could be signed.
The new deal means that both clubs will likely have to look elsewhere to make sure they can add another forward to their squad for next season.
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