Exclusive: Chelsea open talks over €75m transfer, Arsenal and one other club also in the mix | OneFootball

Chelsea have initiated informal contacts over a potential transfer deal for AC Milan forward Rafael Leao, who is also an option being considered by Arsenal.

The Portugal international has a €175m release clause at Milan, but CaughtOffside understands that the Serie A giants could realistically let him go for more like €75m.

Leao is a top talent who could shine in the Premier League, and it looks like interest from Chelsea and Arsenal will be something to watch in the weeks and months ahead.

Sources have informed CaughtOffside that Chelsea’s interest is currently the most advanced, with some initial talks underway, while Arsenal are keeping an eye on Leao as a possible alternative to their top target, Nico Williams.

Rafael Leao in action for AC Milan (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

What next for Rafael Leao as transfer race hots up?

Leao is also attracting interest from Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, CaughtOffside understands, though the 25-year-old is prioritising staying in Europe.

That should give Chelsea the clear advantage in the race for Leao’s signature, though it will also be interesting to see if Arsenal end up stepping up their interest.

The Gunners urgently need to strengthen in attack this summer, and Leao looks like the perfect kind of profile to give Mikel Arteta’s side something a bit different up front.

Rafael Leao to Chelsea or Arsenal?

Leao would be an exciting addition to the Premier League, but would it be a better move for him to choose Chelsea or Arsenal right now?

The Blues still seem some way away from challenging for the biggest trophies, but they do at least look in a strong position to qualify for the Champions League again.

Still, Arsenal are probably the more impressive project right now, with Arteta’s men making the Champions League semi-finals this season, while they’re also likely to be one of the main title favourites next term.