Call Chelsea Only Submitting Informal Offers for Rafael Leao, Maldini: Of course we refuse

JAKARTA - AC Milan's technical director Paolo Maldini has confirmed his team has rejected an approach from English giants Chelsea for their star Rafael Leao.

Several media outlets reported in August that Chelsea was trying to get close to AC Milan for the 23-year-old forward. However, the report was never confirmed by the Italian media.

Maldini admitted that an official offer from the Blues never came, except for an informal offer. However, the offer was immediately rejected by the Rossoneri.

"An official offer from Chelsea never came, but according to information, it was [an informal offer]. Of course, we refused", Maldini told Sky Sport Italia.

Chelsea was reportedly very interested in signing Leao over the summer. However, Milan is said to only be releasing the player for 150 million Euros (IDR 2.2 trillion).

The great interest of the London club has made Maldini and Milan now ready to review Leao's release clause. They are ready to tie their players to a new contract before the January transfer window.

Talks regarding Leao's contract extension have now begun. Maldini even asked Leao to stay at the San Siro to show his potential.

"We've started talking about it for some time with Leao, [Ismael] Bennacer, and [Pierre] Kalulu. Is Leao the most complicated? Each update can be more complicated or easier", said Maldini.

"He still has a lot to learn. If he reaches a higher level than Milan, I think it's also normal to leave. However, we intend to do great things and grow with him."

Leao played 90 minutes as Milan won 3-1 over visitors Dinamo Zagreb in the second match of Group E of the 2022/2023 European Champions League at the San Siro Stadium on Wednesday, September 14 evening.

He contributed to an assist for the Rossoneri's second goal netted by Alexis Saelemaekers. This is Milan's first win after their first match drew 1-1 with RB Salzburg.