Transfer News: Paris Saint-Germain are interested in Rafael Leao and Milan Skriniar amid Chelsea interest
In what will come as a major blow for Chelsea, French side Paris Saint-Germain are interested in signing Rafael Leao and Milan Skriniar. This is according to Tuttosport (h/t The Sun).
Both the players have been on the radar for the west London club, with the Blues seeing an offer for Leao turned down by AC Milan in the summer.
Skriniar was close to joining the French champions in the summer, but Inter Milan refused to sell the centre-back for less than £60 million. PSG are believed to have pulled out of the negotiations then.
Graham Potter could do with both the centre-back and winger in his squad. The Inter defender runs out of contract next summer and no new deal has been agreed to.
If the Nerrazzuri fail to pursue the player, they could be forced to sell the Slovakian international in January to avoid losing him for nothing and PSG are said to be in pole position for his signature.
As for Leao, the Rossoneri are unwilling to sell the 23-year-old for less than his £133 million release clause. The Portuguese winger sees his current contract expire in 2024, and the club is in talks to extend that contract.
With the futures of Hakim Ziyech and Christian Pulisic still uncertain, Leao would make the perfect replacement for them. As an upcoming talent, it will be wise for the Blues to have such a player in their squad as they usher into a new era.
Thiago Silva is now in the twilight of his career. The 38-year-old cannot be expected to start every game and an experienced centre-back is needed to help add depth and increase competition. Skriniar fits that bill perfectly and could be available on a potential free transfer.
More Chelsea News:
- Chelsea and Arsenal are linked with Brazilian sensation Robert Renan
- Chelsea youngster Harvey Vale returns from his loan spell prematurely due to injury
- Barcelona eyeing a move for both Chelsea midfielders N’Golo Kante and Jorginho next summer
PSG have a very thick wallet and will not hesitate to splash out some to land such good players. It remains to be seen if the Blues can match those spending and come out on top on any, if not both, of the transfers.