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The January transfer market is heating up, and Chelsea appear ready to make the biggest splash of the winter. On Tuesday, January 6, 2026, reports emerged that the Blues are finalizing a €75 million move for AC Milan’s Rafael Leão.
With Enzo Maresca’s side looking to solidify their place in the top four and inject more explosive pace into their frontline, the Portuguese winger has reportedly moved to the top of their "must-buy" list.
The Deal: Can €75M Unlock Milan?
While Leão has been a cornerstone of the Rossoneri project, his relationship with the Milan hierarchy has been under scrutiny over the past 12 months.
The Offer: Chelsea are reportedly ready to offer €75 million upfront, plus performance-based add-ons that could take the total package closer to €90 million.
The Player’s Stance: Leão is said to be "intrigued" by a move to the Premier League, having already conquered Serie A with the 2022 Scudetto.
Milan’s Position: AC Milan are currently 4th in Serie A. While they are reluctant to lose their star man mid-season, the club is under pressure to balance the books after missing out on significant Champions League revenue earlier this season.
The "Leão Factor": Why Chelsea Want Him
Chelsea’s attack has been fluid this season, but Maresca is reportedly seeking a "pure transition threat" to complement the creative brilliance of Cole Palmer.
A Busy Week in West London
This news comes just 24 hours after Chelsea’s hard-fought 1–1 draw with Manchester City, a match where the Blues struggled to capitalize on several fast-break opportunities.
The pursuit of Leão suggests that Todd Boehly and the Clearlake hierarchy are ready to back Maresca with "world-class reinforcements" to ensure Champions League qualification.
The Verdict: If Chelsea pull this off, it would be the marquee signing of the 2026 January window. Adding Leão’s raw power and flair to a squad already boasting Palmer and Christopher Nkunku would make Chelsea one of the most feared attacking units in Europe.