Former Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud has claimed he "wasn't worried" about the prospect of Rafael Leao leaving AC Milan for Stamford Bridge this summer. The duo have been part of a key partnership in the forward line that brought the Rossoneri the Serie A title last season.
The pair combined once again on Saturday in the Milan derby, beating Internazionale 3-2 at the San Siro. Leao assisted Giroud in the second half before the Frenchman returned the favour just four minutes later to seal a huge win for their side.
Leao's form will likely still be of interest to Chelsea after their reported interest this summer to try and bolster their forward lines. Reports claimed upwards of £86million could tempt a move, with two-years remaining on his AC Milan contract and discussions set to open over a renewal.
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Last season, the 23-year-old managed his best career return, scoring 11 and assisting 10 in 34 Serie A appearances on their way to being crowned champions. His playing and finishing style led to plenty of comparisons to Arsenal icon Thierry Henry, who undoubtedly found success in the Premier League.
Should he replicate that with a potential move to Chelsea, it could help alleviate some problems for Thomas Tuchel. The German coach has struggled to find goals since taking charge, with the additions of Raheem Sterling and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang hopeful of solving that.
While the summer saga ended with the closing of the transfer window on the first of September, the dwindling of Leao's contract could still see a move possible in the future. However, for the time being he will remain with the Rossoneri, with Giroud claiming he was never concerned over his strike partner's future.
"I was not worried about him. I knew he would remain here," smiled Giroud when discussing the forward after victory against Inter.
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