Al-Hilal join Chelsea in the race for AC Milan star Rafael Leao
Chelsea are set to face competition from Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, who are willing to pay £85 million to sign Rafael Leao from Champions AC Milan in the summer. Leao has become one of the most exciting wingers in Europe, which has led to the Blues showing interest in signing him.
According to O Jogo, via Mirror, Al-Hilal are desperate to sign Leao after former Sporting CP manager Jorge Jesus urged those who have nurtured the 24-year-old, who was in the club’s academy. However, Milan have made their stance clear, saying they won’t accept anything lower than £149 million.
The Portuguese joined Milan in 2019, and since his move to the Serie A club, Leao has recorded 57 goals and 50 assists in 209 appearances for his current employers. However, this campaign he has suffered a slump in his performance scoring just eight goals in 30 Serie A matches.
His performance has seen him represent Portugal at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Then forward is known for his pace and ability to beat defenders. Chelsea have been keeping tabs on the forward since last season, but his asking price could prove to be too much.
The Blues already have three players operating on the left wing: Mykhaylo Mudryk, Christopher Nkunku, and Raheem Sterling; thus, they first need to make a decision before going for Leao. They will have to free up space for this acquisition.
There is no that doubt Leao is one of the top players, but his signing can prove to be expensive as Chelsea have been warned of a potential financial breach. He can be an excellent Sterling replacement if the club decides to part ways with the England international.
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He is young and will thrive in the Premier League, given that he likes to play in an intense environment and exploit space. The Saudi team may go to any measures to recruit the forward, so the Blues will have to take on with them if they intend to sign Leao. Leao, nevertheless, will also need to make a significant choice on his future because he is still a young player with the potential to be among Europe’s best.