Chelsea’s target to remain at AC Milan

Chelsea and other clubs interested in Portugal star Rafael Leao will now have to look elsewhere as the recent report revealed he is expected to sign an extension with Italian side AC Milan, ending the speculation over his future away from the club.

Recall that Leao was heavily linked with a move to Stamford Bridge the last summer following an outstanding 2021/22, but it now seems as though he is set to stay put at San Siro.

A report via Spanish reporter Manu Sainz (via Football.London) claimed that AC Milan turned down a €100 million (£86.5m) bid from Chelsea for Leao in the previous transfer window.

With 18 months on his current contract with Milan, Leao was tipped to leave Italy but it appears the move wouldn’t be happening any time soon.

According to journalist Simon Phillips, Leao is now expected to commit his future to Milan, meaning the Blues will now have to move on to alternative targets.

He said: “I wouldn’t say Chelsea have completely ended their interest, but I’m told now from Italian sources that they expect him to sign an extension anyway with AC Milan, so it’s kind of all working together with that one now.”