Chelsea 'have been in contact' over deal for £127m star at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea held discussions with Rafael Leao’s representatives earlier in the transfer window and ‘there is interest’ in bringing the AC Milan star to Stamford Bridge, according to journalist Simon Phillips.

The Blues picked up their second win of the season thanks to seeing off Leicester City on Saturday, but head coach Thomas Tuchel could freshen up his squad ahead of Thursday’s 11pm deadline.

According to Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport, Chelsea will have to fork out up to £127million if they want to tempt AC Milan into selling Leao.

The report suggests the west Londoners will find it difficult to seal the deal ahead of the transfer window slamming shut as the nine-cap Portugal international is happy at the San Siro.

Chelsea could reportedly include the likes of Michy Batshuayi, Armando Broja, Callum Hudson-Odoi, Hakim Ziyech, Ross Barkley or Conor Gallagher as part of their proposal in order to drive down the Serie A giants’ demands.

It is understood that the Blues held club-to-club negotiations with AC Milan earlier this month as they attempt to make a breakthrough in their pursuit of Leao.

The winger has been high on Chelsea’s list of targets since the transfer window reopened for business and is coveted by the club’s hierarchy.

Phillips understands that Chelsea are keeping an eye on Leao and have been in dialogue with the AC Milan star’s representatives.

However, the journalist has hinted that a late deal is unlikely as the Blues have not headed to the negotiating table.

Phillips told GIVEMESPORT: “I’ve been told that there is interest there, but there’s not been anything recent.

“He’s definitely a player that Chelsea like and they have had contact with his agents, but this was months ago, as far as I’m