Enzo Maresca says YES to €120m Chelsea transfer as Arsenal left stunned

Chelsea are preparing to submit a €120 million offer for long-term Arsenal target Rafael Leao, according to a blockbuster report in Spain.

The AC Milan forward has been linked with a San Siro exit for several years and recent rumours have speculated that he is ready to leave the club in order to test himself in the Premier League.

Leao will still have two years remaining on his current contract with Massimiliano Allegri’s side when the 2026 summer transfer window opens, but an early exit could be on the cards amid interest from England.

Arsenal have once again earmarked the Portugal international as a key target as they continue to chase a new left winger, while Chelsea have now reportedly rekindled their interest in his signature.

The Blues were heavily linked with a move for the 26-year-old in both 2022 and 2023, but they were ultimately unable to finalise a deal with Milan and Leao’s proposed move to Stamford Bridge fell through.

Since then, Arsenal have emerged as more credible candidates to land the Portugal star, although they have now been left stunned by Chelsea’s latest approach.

Rafael Leao to join Chelsea?

Spanish publication Fichajes claim that Chelsea are willing to submit a €120m offer to sign Leao next year after intensifying their pursuit of his signature in recent weeks.

It’s reported that Enzo Maresca has given his approval to the transfer, with the Stamford Bridge hierarchy keen to add further attacking reinforcements despite the arrivals of both Jamie Gittens and Alejandro Garnacho this summer.

Leao has scored four goals and provided one assist in seven appearances across all competitions so far this season, however it has previously been reported that Milan will not sanction a departure unless his release clause of €150m is triggered by an interested party.

In addition to Arsenal and Chelsea, both Manchester City and Manchester United have also previously been tipped as possible destinations for Leao, although their interest has died down significantly this year.

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