AC Milan president Paolo Scaroni has issued an update on Rafael Leao's future amid interest from Chelsea. The 23-year-old forward was heavily linked with a move to Stamford Bridge in the summer but a move failed to materialise.
According to journalist Carlo Garganese, the Blues are 'still in touch' with Leao over a potential switch to west London and they're said to be one of the frontrunners. However, after the Portugal international impressed at the World Cup, Chelsea face growing competition for his signature.
Leao, who sees his deal with the Italian giants expire in 2024, featured five times for Fernando Santos' side in Qatar, directly contributing towards two goals. He wasn't handed a start at the World Cup but he still showed great promise when called upon, with a pair of well-taken efforts against Ghana in the group stage and Switzerland in the round of 16.
READ MORE: Chelsea have a secret weapon in their bid to beat Liverpool and Real Madrid to Jude Bellingham
According to Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport, Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, Manchester City, Manchester United and Liverpool are rivalling the Blues for Leao. The Portuguese star is said to have a €150million (£130.5million) release clause in his contract.
But, Milan are not looking to offload Leao - whether that be in January or in the summer - with the Rossoneri eager to tie him down to a new contract. According to Tutto Mercato Web, the Italian giants are willing to pay the winger £115,000-a-week as talks with directors Paolo Maldini and Frederic Massara continue.
Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, president Scaroni has given his insight on negotiations and admitted his confidence that Leao will pen an extension. It remains to be seen whether the Portuguese star's new deal will still include the aforementioned release clause.
"They tell me that in Milan he is very comfortable, that he is motivated," Scaroni said. "I know that Maldini is negotiating with him and as far as I just said: if he negotiates, I’m calm."
At Gran Gala del Calcio awards in October, Milan director Massara also revealed his confidence that Leao will sign a new deal. Speaking to Sky Sport Italia, he said: "We are confident. We want to consolidate this growth that the boy has had and stabilise the team to give continuity at the highest levels, and we will try to find a solution to continue for a long time with Leao."
READ NEXT:
Todd Boehly 'close' to completing first Chelsea January transfer amid Armando Broja injury
Chelsea player ratings vs Aston Villa – Hall stands out, Hutchinson dangerous, Broja concern
The seven Chelsea players Graham Potter did not select for friendly vs Aston Villa
Chelsea star Armando Broja suffers injury in friendly against Aston Villa
Chelsea news and transfers LIVE: Latest news, rumours and gossip from Stamford Bridge
