AC Milan’s deal for Chelsea forward Hakim Ziyech is “at 99%”, while the Blues retain an interest in Milan’s Rafael Leao.
That’s according to journalist Ciro Venerato, who says the Rossoneri are “afraid” of losing the Portuguese star in January.
Ziyech has been heavily linked with a move away from Chelsea since the summer, when Milan first showed an interest in him.
The two sides could not get a deal done but he has remained on the list of players who could depart Stamford Bridge in the next window, particularly after playing a starring role for Morocco at the World Cup.
That has only helped to show the world what he is capable of, something he has not been able to do since joining Chelsea in July 2020.
Milan remain keen on him and are believed to be working on a deal, which could end up being tied into the ongoing concern regarding Leao’s future.
He has been shining in Milan this season and was the subject of a bid from Chelsea in the summer, something the Serie A side rejected.
That has done nothing to put off the Blues, who have continued to be linked with a move in January, when it is believed Todd Boehly will back Graham Potter with funds to reshape the squad.
Venerato now insists they remain in the picture, with Milan concerned about their ability to keep the player.
“At the moment the club is focusing on renewals. The first to be signed will be that of Giroud. As for Leao, it’s a tangled mess, there are pieces to be put in place,” Pianeta Azzurro report him saying to 1 Football Club.
“Chelsea is interested in the player, PSG if they lose a tenor might think about it, United remains in the background.
“Rafa, however, is comfortable in Milan, the Rossoneri club hopes to find the solution, but will have to go beyond the salary cap set for the top players. The situation remains open.
“The Rossoneri are afraid of losing Leao, but in January they will have to decide what to do with De Ketelaere as well, whether to keep trusting him. At 99%, however, the Ziyech deal with Chelsea will go through.”
