Former Chelsea midfielder Emmanuel Petit has encouraged Todd Boehly to complete the signing of Rafael Leao amid the uncertain futures of Christian Pulisic and Hakim Ziyech. The 23-year-old AC Milan star was heavily linked with a move to Stamford Bridge in the summer as the Blues looked to bolster their front-three.
A deal failed to materialise, but Chelsea are said to be monitoring the winger's situation at the San Siro after he recently entered talks with the Rossoneri over a new deal. 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, Boehly was eager to hold talks with higher-ups at Milan in the first week of October to discuss a potential move for Leao. Petit has since urged Chelsea to wrap up a deal for the £70million-rated star, claiming that the forward would be a good signing and adapt to life in the Premier League.
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Speaking to Genting Casino, Petit said: "Rafael Leao used to play for Lille. He didn't play for long, but then he was sold to Milan - just like Napoli striker Victor Osimhen.
"He's tall, powerful, fast and physical. He's got a great ability to score goals, as well as anger and ambition. He'd be a good signing. If an English club is able to buy him, then they should go for it as he will provide a lot of goals and adapt to the league quickly."
Petit continued by delving into the uncertainty regarding Christian Pulisic's future at Chelsea. The former Blues midfielder explained what the United States international must do to prove himself under Graham Potter, or else he risks an exit - a vacancy which could ultimately be filled by Leao.
"I heard what Pulisic's father said on the social networks - that he should show more respect and get more playing time etc," Petit said. "But like I said with Mason Mount, you play for Chelsea, and the competition is very high.
"Look at the dressing room. How many international players and quality players are there? When he gets on the pitch, he needs to show what he can do, and he did that against Wolves. I'm pretty sure he won't be starting against Milan in the first XI, but if he makes a difference when he plays, he'll get more and more minutes."
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