Rafael Leao rejects Chelsea & Real Madrid offers, keen on renewal with AC Milan

AC Milan superstar Rafael Leao, whose contract expires in 2024, has turned down offers from European giants Chelsea and Real Madrid.

Leao’s contract situation continues to dominate the headlines, with Milan yet to find a breakthrough in the renewal talks.

This has caught the attention of several clubs, who believe that Milan could be forced to sell the Portuguese forward this summer to avoid the risk of losing him for free.

La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Chelsea and Madrid have contacted Leao’s agent Jorge Mendes to enquire about a potential transfer, but the highly-talented winger wants to continue with Milan.

Milan and Leao are on the same page regarding a pay rise, but the player’s pending payment to former club Sporting CP is holding up the deal.

The 23-year-old owes around €20 million to the Portuguese outfit after terminating his contract, and he wants Milan to cover that.

Chelsea contacted Sporting to gain knowledge of the situation, but Leao is unmoved by their attempts.

Recent reports suggest that his former club Lille are ready to pay the debt, leaving Milan with a clear path to extend his contract.

Milan are keen to close the deal as Leao’s stock continues to rise, with the Portuguese international proving himself to be one of the best forwards in Europe this season.

Leao scored a sensational goal against Napoli in the Champions League quarter-finals, helping Milan reach the last four, where they will face Inter Milan.

He also netted a brace in the win against Lecce over the weekend to take his tally to 13 goals and 12 assists in all competitions.