Rafael Leao is one of the names that FC Barcelona are looking at as a potential option to strengthen their attacking unit in the summer.
The Portuguese international is going through a difficult moment at AC Milan, with the Rossoneri now open to selling the attacker, especially after their recent elimination from the UEFA Champions League.
While it is a boost for Barcelona, the situation has seemingly alerted other clubs as well, who are now entering the race to sign the attacker.
Chelsea want Rafael Leao
Indeed, according to reports in Italy, as relayed by AS, Chelsea have set their sights on a summer move for Rafael Leao, emerging as rivals for Barcelona.
The Premier League heavy-spenders are looking to add a big-name marquee player to their attacking unit and see Leao as a player that fits the bill.
Leao has a contract with Milan until 2028 and as such, he is likely to command a sizeable fee if the Rossoneri do decide to put him up for sale in the summer.
Chelsea’s entry into the picture could make things tricky for Barcelona as they might have difficulties matching the Blues’ spending power.
So far this season, Leao has scored nine and assisted eight goals from 35 appearances in all competitions.
Barcelona wanted to sign the forward last summer as well after they missed out on Nico Williams, but Financial Fair Play issues stopped the operation in its tracks.
Even though they remain interested, Chelsea’s emergence as a rival could complicate matters. More clubs are also likely to throw their hats in the ring for his signing if Milan decide to part ways with him.
*Player valuation in title obtained from transfermarkt.com on date of publication.
Read the full article here