Chelsea seem to have found significant leverage in the race to sign AC Milan star Rafael Leao. The 23-year-old was heavily linked with a move to Stamford Bridge in the summer as Thomas Tuchel looked to bolster his side's frontline.
And, even after the German's sacking, the Blues are said to still be monitoring the winger's situation at the San Siro as talks over a new deal with the Rossoneri continue. According to The Times, Todd Boehly was working on a deal to sign Leao and enquired about the possibility of including 'one or more' players in a player-plus-cash swap deal.
However, a deal failed to materialise. With the transfer window now shut, Milan have stepped up their efforts to retain the Portugal international but the west Londoners might hold the key to truly testing Leao's resolve.
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According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Christian Pulisic would 'gladly accept' a move to Milan in January should he be included as part of swap-deal for the Portuguese star. It's said that the Italian giants have held long interest in the United States international.
Leao played a crucial role in helping Milan win the Serie A last season and it's believed that Pulisic could be the answer to his exit. The Chelsea winger was heavily linked with an exit from the club in the summer after having fallen out of favour under Thomas Tuchel.
Pulisic, who sees his contract with the west Londoners expire in 2024, featured 22 times for the Blues in the Premier League last season, directly contributing towards eight goals. He played a bit-part role in Chelsea securing Champions League qualification amid steep competition for places in the first-team.
For now, Pulisic will be eager to secure game time under Graham Potter ahead of the World Cup with the winter transfer window not open until January. This plays into Chelsea's hands; if he impresses then he'll naturally boost his £44million valuation which could be crucial in negotiations for Leao.
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