Chelsea Prepare €120m Move for Rafael Leao After Enzo Maresca’s Approval

Chelsea are set to launch a €120 million bid for AC Milan forward Rafael Leao, with manager Enzo Maresca approving the move. Arsenal, long interested in Leao, are reportedly shocked by Chelsea’s renewed pursuit. The 26-year-old Portuguese star has four goals and one assist in seven games this season.

For the 2026 summer transfer window, Chelsea are reportedly ready to make a stunning €120 million bid for AC Milan star Rafael Leao, leaving Arsenal surprised by their rivals’ aggressive move. According to reports from Spain, manager Enzo Maresca has approved the transfer, with Chelsea’s board eager to strengthen their attack despite already signing Jamie Gittens and Alejandro Garnacho earlier in the year.

Leao, valued at around €68.8 million by FootballTransfers, has two years left on his Milan contract and has started the current season impressively, scoring four goals and providing one assist in seven appearances across all competitions. Arsenal had identified the Portuguese winger as a top target as they continue to seek a dynamic left-sided forward, but Chelsea’s revived pursuit appears to have disrupted their plans. The Blues previously came close to signing Leao in 2022 and 2023 before negotiations broke down.

Milan, however, are reluctant to sell their talisman unless his €150 million release clause is met. While Manchester City and Manchester United were once linked with the 26-year-old, their interest has faded, setting up what could become another intense transfer battle between Arsenal and Chelsea next summer for one of Europe’s most exciting attacking talents.