Chelsea will return for Rafael Leao in coming months

Chelsea are prepared to make a fresh attempt to sign AC Milan forward Rafael Leao when the transfer window reopens.

The Blues were determined to land the Portuguese star before the summer transfer deadline, but their offer was knocked back.

They were willing to pay around £70m for the former Lille man, but Milan refused to sell for less than his £127m release clause.

Despite this, Milan are facing an uncertain situation with Leao, who has apparently turned down a renewal beyond June 2024.

He is said to be eyeing a net salary of around €6m per year. Milan are quite clear that they are unlikely to meet his current demands.

According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Chelsea are keeping tabs on the situation, and they could make a fresh move at the turn of the year.

The west London giants could be prepared to make an improved bid to persuade the Rossoneri to part ways with the 23-year-old.

Leao has been in exceptional form this campaign. He has already registered three goals and six assists from just eight appearances.