Chelsea eyeing Rafael Leão as Enzo Maresca seeks a winger who consistently scores and creates. The Portuguese talent has dazzled AC Milan across six seasons—but now speculation mounts that he may be open to a switch according to reports on Football Talk.
His original release clause—around £145 million (€175m)—put off many suitors. But according to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Milan might now sell for just £66 million (≈€80m), slashing the cost in half.
There’s a twist: Chelsea’s João Félix, currently on loan at Milan, could be included in a swap. The Portugal star has impressed since his move in February and Milan are keen to keep him permanently. A potential deal might see Félix head back permanently in exchange for Leão.
It’s a lower cash layout. A smarter balance sheet. And allows Chelsea to reinvest elsewhere—goalkeeper, centre-back, even striker remain on Maresca’s shopping list.
Chelsea could face resistance from Barcelona, also linked to Leão’s signature. But with Raphinha shining and their wing depth strong, Blaugrana’s interest may not materialize into a firm bid. That could give Chelsea the edge.
This isn’t just about signing a winger—it’s about urgency. They need creativity, goals, a spark. Leão fits the bill even if he’s not at his peak consistency.
Félix may prefer Milan, while Leão would embrace the Premier League spotlight. That could swing the deal—and Chelsea emerge stronger in every way.
Like Maresca himself: bold, fast, purposeful.