Chelsea handed Rafael Leao transfer blow?

Chelsea have been handed a potential blow in signing AC Milan forward Rafael Leao with Manchester City joining the race.

The Blues wanted to land the Portugal international for £68m this summer, but Milan refused to sell for less than his £127m release clause.

However, the scenario could change in 12 months' time. Leao has less than two years left on his contract, and has no plans to extend for now.

If the situation stays the same, he could be available for less next summer. Chelsea are still interested, but could face stiff competition from City.

According to Gianluca Di Marzio, Pep Guardiola is a huge admirer of the former Lille man, and could attempt to sign him next year.

Leao is said to relish the prospect of playing in the Premier League, and City could be a more lucrative destination for him over Chelsea.

The Cityzens are aiming to win the Premier League for a third-straight campaign, something which they failed to do in 2019/2020.