, but does an Arsenal move make more sense?
Chelsea have joined Arsenal in their pursuit of AC Milan superstar Rafael Leão and could make a shocking bid next year.
Chelsea are now making a “strong attempt” to finally bring the winger to the Premier League in 2026, after years of transfer rumours. Chelsea are “determined to amplify the attack” with a high-profile signing of Leão and have reportedly prepared a mega-bid of €120 million.
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It is claimed that such a massive offer would convince Milan to let Leão leave, which would give them the funds for several new reinforcements.
Rafael Leão at AC Milan: Key Details
- He was signed from Lille for €35 million in August 2019.
- He has accounted for 74 goals and 63 assists in 267 appearances for the Rossoneri.
- He has helped them win a league championship (Scudetto) and an Italian Super Cup.
Fichajes claims that Enzo Maresca has “approved” Leão’s potential arrival at Stamford Bridge. Maresca reportedly sees the 26-year-old as someone with the top-class ability and European experience needed to take his attacking streak to the next level.
January may be “the first step in negotiations”, but the transfer will be a little easier to complete by the end of the season.
Leão has recovered to his “top form” after a somewhat disappointing 2024/25 season. He has started this season quickly after returning from a calf injury, with four goals and one assist in seven games.
The left winger could choose Arsenal instead
Chelsea have long admired the Portuguese star, but they have little reason to sign him after the summer acquisitions of fellow left-wingers Alejandro Garnacho and Jamie Gittens.
Instead, Leão should consider joining London rivals Arsenal. Mikel Arteta wants Andrea Berta to sign a new left winger who is deadlier than Gabriel Martinelli in front of goal, and Leão fits the description.
Leão is exceptionally good with the ball and can use his tricks to get past multiple opponents before either shooting or recording a teammate. He will be a clear upgrade from Martinelli, who has frustrated supporters with his wastefulness in front of goal.
Transfer correspondent Fraser Fletcher revealed on October 29 that Leão is “very keen” to move to England and test himself in the Premier League.
Sources have told Fletcher that Arsenal are serious candidates to secure the 41-capped international, and see him as an “ideal” addition in attack.
Manchester City could also come into the picture for Leão.
How a Leão signing will affect the Arsenal squad
A move for Leão to the Emirates Stadium would immediately see Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard drop lower in the depth chart.
It would then be up to Arteta to decide which player should be sold and who should be Leão’s reserve.
Martinelli still has time left before his peak years, but he probably wouldn’t settle for a backup role. The Brazilian could be sold for big money, which would help Arsenal recoup funds.
Trossard would probably react better to being a substitute than Martinelli, as he has performed brilliantly as a substitute at Arsenal.
In addition, as a 30-year-old, Arsenal would have received significantly less money for him than for Martinelli.
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