Chelsea Rafael Leao transfer plan emerges as Joao Felix could ignite £145m pursuit

Chelsea are reportedly putting plans in place to complete a big-money transfer during the summer window.

The Blues had a relatively quiet January when it comes to new arrivals. Mathis Amougou was signed from Saint Etienne in a £12million deal - and he was the only permanent addition to the squad - despite rumours that it could have been a very busy month at Stamford Bridge and beyond.

It remains to be seen what players Enzo Maresca and key figures behind the scenes at Stamford Bridge will look to sign when the transfer market reopens in the summer. Reports are already claiming, though, that the Blues have a potential target in mind.

According to TBR Football, Chelsea have expressed an interest in signing AC Milan star Rafael Leao. The report claims that the Blues have identified the wide forward area of their squad as being in need of reinforcements, and are already looking at targets ahead of the summer.

It has been claimed that Leao has emerged as a target for Chelsea, with the Blues reported to be monitoring the AC Milan star. The report even states that Chelsea are asking to be kept in the loop should any updates regarding Leao's future emerge.

Chelsea are reported to be admirers of Leao amid suggestions that the request about the Milan star came during negotiations over Joao Felix's loan deal during the January transfer window. Leao has been in good form for Milan this season - scoring nine goals with eight assists in all competitions.

Leao's contract at the San Siro is currently set to expire in 2028, with Milan under no pressure to sell one of their star players. There have also been reports that Leao has a €175million (£145.6million) release clause in his contract at the Serie A giants.