Rafael Leao has already sent Chelsea clear transfer message as AC Milan consider shock swap deal
Rafael Leao has already revealed whether or not he'd be open to joining Chelsea. The 25-year-old forward has been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge on numerous occasions in the past as he continues to impress for AC Milan.
This season, Leao, who sees his contract at the San Siro expire in June 2028, has featured 21 times in Serie A, scoring five goals and providing five assists. Despite the Portugal international's best efforts, the Rossoneri are seven points behind Lazio in the race for Champions League qualification – and 17 adrift of Napoli at the top of the table.
Desperate to transform Milan's fortunes, the club replaced Paulo Fonseca with Sergio Conceicao in December. As part of the former Porto boss' rebuild, the Italian giants welcomed some big names to the San Siro, including Kyle Walker from Manchester City and Joao Felix from Chelsea on loan.
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The Blues ace, who netted on his debut in a 3-1 win over Roma last week, appears to have already made a great impression. So much so that, according to Calciomercato, Milan could offer Chelsea either Leao or Fikayo Tomori as part of a potential permanent deal for Felix.
While the West Londoners have been previously credited with interest in the Rossoneri forward, it could be difficult to secure his signature. Speaking to Italian outlet Il Corriere della Sera in March 2024, as quoted by the Metro, Leao appeared to rule out a move away from Milan.
"It’s my home," said the winger. "I like everything. Shopping, fashion and even the weather because it’s similar to Portugal. If you think it’s cold, try to go to Lille! And then food, I like everything about Italian cuisine. Pasta, risotto, fish…
"My future is at Milan, I am here and I have four years left [on my contract]. Milan helped me when I was in a very difficult situation and they supported me. I won’t forget. I am loyal. I was a kid when I arrived and I’ve grown up as a man and as a footballer.
"I want to win again, my head is here. I love great goals, of course I’d like to score more, but I also make assists, I am a complete player," added Leao. "Today’s football is only about stats and I don’t like it.
"Football is magic and joy. People who only think about numbers make me angry. People must be entertained so that I can have fun too. I am a fan of aesthetics and beauty. In football, fashion, music and love. Critics always motivate me.
"Sometimes I get angry, but only if it’s not constructive. I am sorry when they are done just to taunt me. Sometimes I ask myself, 'Does this guy knows anything about football?', and these things make me stronger anyway, I know where I can get."