Chelsea have reportedly received a major boost in the race for AC Milan attacker Rafael Leao.
The 25-year-old has been the topic of transfer speculation in recent times, with the Blues supposedly considering a swoop for the winger in the near future.
Leao has enjoyed a steady campaign in Serie A for the Rossoneri so far in 2024-25, scoring five goals and providing five assists across 22 matches.
There has also been continued international recognition during this season for the attacker, who has represented Portugal's senior side on 37 occasions.
Since making the switch from French giants Lille to Milan in 2019, Leao has bagged 67 goals across 247 competitive appearances for the Serie A challengers.
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Chelsea handed boost in Leao pursuit?
According to Italian outlet Gazzetta dello Sport, Chelsea and other potential suitors have been handed a major boost in the race for AC Milan star Leao.
The report claims that the Rossoneri are now willing to offload the 25-year-old for a reduced price of £66m ahead of the summer transfer window.
It was previously suggested that Milan would only allow Leao to depart the club for his release clause of £145m - a figure that deterred plenty of possible purchasers.
However, it is believed that the former Sporting Lisbon youngster has failed to progress in the trajectory expected by the Italian club's bosses.
As a result, there could be an opportunity for the likes of Chelsea and Barcelona to secure the talent for a cut-price fee ahead of the new campaign.
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Do Chelsea really need Leao?
Sitting sixth in the Premier League table and favourites for the Conference League crown, Chelsea are showing shoots of recovery this term under the leadership of Enzo Maresca.
The Italian head coach is said to be a massive admirer of Leao, although it is questionable whether the 25-year-old would waltz straight into the Stamford Bridge side.
Chelsea boast plenty of quality options on the flanks and in attacking areas, including Cole Palmer, Pedro Neto, Christopher Nkunku and Noni Madueke.
Carter White
