Former Italy midfielder Massimo Ambrosini has suggested that Rafael Leao should cost more than Jack Grealish as an exit from the San Siro looms. The 23-year-old AC Milan star was heavily linked with a move to Stamford Bridge in the summer as Chelsea looked to bolster their front-three.
A deal failed to materialise, but the Blues are said to be monitoring the winger's situation after he recently entered talks with the Rossoneri to pen a new contract. Leao, who sees his deal with the Italian giants expire in 2024, reportedly has a €150million (£130.5m) release clause.
Milan have stepped up their efforts to retain the Portugal international amid growing interest in the player, and the west Londoners are believed to be keen to test the club's resolve. According to Calciomercato, Todd Boehly was eager to hold talks with higher-ups at Milan in the first week of October to discuss a potential move for Leao.
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Milan have seemingly stood strong on their stance and they've been encouraged to draw inspiration from Grealish's move to City last year. Speaking to Tuttosport on Leao, as quoted by Football Italia, Ambrosini suggested that his former side should settle for no less than what Pep Guardiola's side paid Aston Villa for the England international
When asked whether the Portuguese star is worth more than €100million (£87m), he replied: "I don’t like to talk about this, but if Manchester City paid €117m (£101.8m) for Jack Grealish…"
However, after Leao failed to impress against Chelsea in the Champions League, the Blues have been urged against making an impulsive offer and to remain patient. The winger failed to register a single goal contribution versus the west Londoners and often found himself suppressed by Reece James, who dominated Milan's left-wing home and away.
Speaking to BT Sport, Joe Cole cast doubt as to whether Leao ticks the boxes that a player of his reported value should fulfil. The former Chelsea midfielder said: "Do you know what? For all of his talent and everything tonight, there will be scouts here, and there will be question marks on his attitude.
"He went like most of his teammates tonight. He went a bit limp against James. He didn't get his own way. First 20 minutes, he was loving life, chest out, he was running at players.
"Reece James put it on him a bit, and we watched his body language," added Cole, before reminding potential suitors that there is still time for Leao to elevate his game. "If you're going to spend £100m or whatever his price tag will be, you've got to tick all of the boxes. There's still some time left, and he is exciting."
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