Rafael Leao Turkish price surge prompts Chelsea’s early approach

Chelsea have launched an early pursuit of AC Milan forward Rafael Leao, whose Turkish price tag has surged as the Portugal international approaches the end of a contract that runs to June 2028 and commands €5.5 million a season in wages.

AC Milan are prepared to offload Leao, having signalled no intention to renew his deal that extends to June 2028, leaving the club with a costly wage burden and a dwindling role that now demands a replacement in the squad.

The forward’s reduced involvement was evident when he warmed up for the Serie A clash against Juventus on April 26 at the San Siro and later left the pitch dejected after being substituted in the May 10 match with Atalanta at the same stadium.

The Portugal international told several interviewers before the World Cup that his time at San Siro was over and that he was ready for a new challenge, confirming his desire to move on from AC Milan.

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Leao had previously expressed a wish to join the Premier League, yet Manchester United and Aston Villa have shown little interest, while Chelsea have now made an early approach, becoming the first Premier League club to move beyond speculation.

He has laid out financial terms with Turkish giants Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe; his current Milan wages total €5.5 million per season plus performance‑related bonuses, and the Turkish clubs could almost double that figure to meet his expectations.

Leao says he will consider a Turkish transfer only if the wages are big enough to sway him, acknowledging his lack of options after limited suitors and recognising the wage differential as the key factor.

With his contract expiring in June and Milan eager to sell, a move to Turkey appears plausible if the financial package satisfies his demands, while Chelsea’s early enquiry adds another dimension to the unfolding negotiations.