Chelsea prepared to pay €95m to sign Milan's Leao
Cameron Smith
- Updated: 23 Aug 2022 16:09 BST
- 3 min read
Chelsea are reportedly prepared to make a €95 million bid to sign AC Milan forward Rafael Leao according to reports.
The 23-year-old Portuguese international has attracted mass attention during his time in Italy, with his form helping Milan win the Scudetto last season.
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Now, he's become a key transfer target for Chelsea, who are keen to add depth and quality to a faltering front-line.
Raheem Sterling, Mason Mount and Kai Havertz has been the starting trio in each of the Blues' opening three Premier League fixtures, but only Sterling has a goal contribution to his name - an assist for Reece James' goal against Tottenham.
As a result, Chelsea have taken to the transfer market in an attempt to combat their issues in attack.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's move from Barcelona is nearing completion, while a £60m bid for Everton's Anthony Gordon is expected to be launched soon.
However, those two aren't the only attackers that Chelsea are targeting as Thomas Tuchel and Todd Boehly prepare last-minute deals before the window shuts.
Chelsea in for Leao
Chelsea have been interested in Leao for some time, but links with a move haven't been accompanied by a bid.
However, according to The Times, Chelsea are ready to meet Milan's asking price for Leao - €95m (£80m) - in a bid to lure him away from San Siro.
Leao's current contract at Milan expires in 2024 and he has a release clause set at €150m, a price that Chelsea may be asked to reach should they wish to sign him.
It's also understood that Chelsea have been asked ensure any transfer rids the debt Leao owes to former club Sporting.
Upon Leao joining Lille from Sporting, the Court of Arbitration for Sport ordered the player and club to pay €16.5 million (£14m) plus interest to Sporting after Leao terminated his contract to join the French club.
The debt has reportedly reached £16 million according to The Times, with 25% of Leão’s salary going to the court each month.
