Chelsea ‘will be back next year’ for £86m target at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea ‘will be back next year’ for AC Milan forward Rafael Leao after missing out on his signature this summer, according to journalist Dean Jones.

The Blues were believed to be in the market for the 23-year-old’s signature, although were unwilling to meet the Rossoneri’s astronomic valuation in the window that has just closed.

Spanish journalist Manu Sainz (via Football.London) claimed that Milan rejected a €100 million (£86.5m) bid from Chelsea for Leao as they were determined to keep hold of their prized asset.

The Portugal international is known to have a €150m (£129.7m) release clause in his contract, but the reigning Serie A champions could be forced to compromise in 12 months’ time.

That’s because Leao’s existing deal is due to expire in the summer of 2024, meaning if they refuse to negotiate with his potential suitors in the next two transfer windows and the youngster doesn’t commit his future to the club, they could lose him on a free.

Chelsea, along with several other top teams from across the continent, will surely be aware of the versatile attacker’s situation, potentially sparking a bidding war.

In the end, Thomas Tuchel brought in Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang into the club to replace Romelu Lukaku, yet at 33, the Gabon international is not a long-term solution to their attacking woes.

Jones has reiterated that Milan were unwilling to compromise on Leao’s release clause over the summer, but has tipped Chelsea to revive their interest in him over time.

In an interview with GiveMeSport, he said: “Leao emerged as one of the most exciting forwards in the world, and as such, Chelsea would love to have him.

“Milan were not letting him leave for anything less than his release clause, but Chelsea will be back next