Rio Ferdinand has warned Chelsea that they will be joined by the world's biggest clubs in the race to sign AC Milan star Rafael Leao. The 23-year-old forward was previously linked with a move to Stamford Bridge in the summer but a move failed to materialise.
Leao, who sees his contract with the Rossoneri expire at the end of next season, has been closely watched by the Blues since joining Milan in 2019, football.london understands. It's said that talks between the Italian side and the Portugal international over a new deal are still ongoing, but an agreement is yet to be reached.
Speaking on BT Sport, Ferdinand revealed just how excited he is still see Leao in action against Inter Milan in the Champions League semi-final. The former Manchester United defender said: "I saw him for 45 minutes at Chelsea, he was phenomenal. In a semi-final, it’s such a showpiece game to see a player of that calibre."
