Chelsea have ‘Opened Talks’ to Sign £63m AC Milan Forward – Report | OneFootball

Chelsea Lead Transfer Chase for Rafael Leão – But Can They Beat Arsenal to the Punch?

Chelsea have entered the summer transfer window with intent, as reported by CaughtOffside, making informal contact over a move for AC Milan’s electrifying forward Rafael Leão. The Portuguese international has long been admired across Europe, and with initial talks already underway at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea appear to be ahead of their rivals.

“Sources have informed CaughtOffside of the interesting piece of Chelsea news that the Blues’ interest is currently the most advanced,” the report claims. With Arsenal and an unnamed third club also monitoring Leão’s situation, this is shaping up to be one of the summer’s major transfer tussles.

Although Leão’s release clause is €175 million, it’s believed Milan may be willing to part with him for a far more palatable €75 million – a figure that would still represent a significant investment, but well within the realms of possibility for a Premier League heavyweight.

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Leão’s Profile: Premier League-Ready

There’s no denying that Rafael Leão fits the Premier League mould. Powerful, technically gifted, and devastating in one-on-one situations, the 25-year-old has shone in Serie A. His pace and directness would offer Chelsea – or Arsenal – an explosive dimension in the final third.

“Leao is a top talent who could shine in the Premier League,” CaughtOffside notes, and few would disagree. With the player himself said to be “prioritising staying in Europe” despite Saudi Pro League interest, Chelsea and Arsenal’s chances improve considerably.

If the Blues do land Leão, it would be a statement of ambition under new head coach Enzo Maresca, especially with the squad already boasting wide options like Mykhailo Mudryk and Noni Madueke. Leão would arguably walk into the XI – particularly if Chelsea are looking to accelerate their project with proven, high-impact quality.

Arsenal’s Dilemma: Nico Williams or Rafael Leão?

Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal are also eyeing Leão, though he appears to be second choice behind Athletic Club’s Nico Williams. That hesitation could play into Chelsea’s hands.

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Arsenal, who reached the Champions League semi-finals and remain firm title contenders, certainly offer an attractive proposition to any elite player. Yet their prioritisation of Williams hints that Leão might not be an immediate focus. Should Chelsea act swiftly, they could steal a march.

“The Gunners urgently need to strengthen in attack this summer,” CaughtOffside argues, and while Leão would offer “something a bit different up front”, the club’s slow approach may cost them.

Could Leão Be Chelsea’s Missing Piece?

Despite a season of inconsistency, Chelsea are not as far off as critics suggest. With Maresca at the helm and Champions League qualification within reach, they’re a club on the cusp of resurgence. In that context, Leão represents more than a marquee signing – he could be the creative spark and attacking threat to turn promise into points.

What sets Chelsea apart in this race is their readiness to act early and decisively. The groundwork laid now could prove critical by the time the market fully opens. The big question is whether Milan will hold firm to their €75 million valuation – and if Chelsea will meet it without delay.

Photo: IMAGO

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

There’s genuine excitement around the possibility of seeing Rafael Leão in Chelsea blue. At €75 million, this would be one of the most astute deals of the summer if the Blues pull it off. With Enzo Maresca looking to implement a possession-based, attacking philosophy, Leão feels tailor-made for the left side of a dynamic front three.

His physicality, flair, and end product are exactly what Chelsea have lacked at times this season. The club has signed potential in abundance, but Leão would bring something different – a player who’s already proven at the highest level and can impact big matches.

Yes, Arsenal might be more stable right now, but Chelsea are building something bold. And there’s something special about being part of a rebirth, rather than joining an already humming machine. Leão could be that pivotal figure who helps elevate Chelsea back to the summit of English football.

With informal talks already underway, this feels like more than just speculation. It feels like Chelsea are finally moving with purpose. If the board backs Maresca early in the window, Leão could be the face of this new era at Stamford Bridge.