Chelsea set to miss out on Rafael Leao?

Chelsea could be set to miss out on Rafael Leao as he is close to signing a new long-term contract with AC Milan.

The Portuguese was frequently linked with the Blues over the summer, but they could not entice the Rossoneri to sell him.

Their proposal of around £65 million was rejected by the Milan giants and they are now close to renewing his contract.

Speaking to Record.pt, Leao's father has said that the 23-year-old loves being in Italy and talks are ongoing over a renewal.

He said: "We are working on it. Until the deadline of 2024 we will take care of everything, without necessarily Chelsea, Barcelona or Real Madrid."

"He loves being in Italy. He has a predilection for Italians, the one the Portuguese do not have for him."

Leao has been in superb form for the Rossoneri this term. He has scored seven goals and provided nine assists from 20 games.

The Portuguese's current contract concludes in June 2024 and Milan are said to be confident of committing him to a long-term deal.

The news will come as a huge blow for Chelsea, who have been keen admirers of Leao, right from his early days at Sporting.