Aston Villa have joined the race to sign Rafael Leão as Unai Emery searches for a replacement for Morgan Rogers.
AC Milan will consider selling the Portugal international this summer. Leão also wants to move to the Premier League, although no English club has made a formal offer yet.
According to SempreMilan, Villa could now enter the picture after selling Rogers to Chelsea for £117m. Milan value Leão at around €60m, but they may consider a slightly lower offer.
Villa have not opened talks with the player or submitted an official bid. Their interest remains at an early stage as Emery assesses several attacking options.
Leão could fill Rogers’ role at Villa
Leão usually operates from the left side of the attack, where Rogers often played last season. He offers pace, strength and the ability to beat defenders in one-on-one situations.
The 27-year-old also brings considerable experience at the highest level. He has played regularly in the Champions League and contributed 70 goals and 62 assists during his Milan career.
His performances dipped last season, but Milan still regard him as one of their most valuable players. His contract runs until 2028, which allows the Italian club to demand a significant fee.
Villa already have an open channel with Milan through their pursuit of Pervis Estupiñán. That relationship could help them establish the full cost of a possible deal for Leão.
ReadAstonVilla reported on Monday that Villa are also considering a £40m move for Crysencio Summerville. The West Ham winger would offer a younger and cheaper alternative.
Emery needs another attacker after losing Rogers, while Leon Bailey could also depart. Jadon Sancho has returned to Manchester United following the end of his loan spell.
Leão wants Premier League football and Villa can offer him Champions League competition. Emery and the recruitment team must now decide whether to invest a large part of the Rogers fee in the Portuguese forward.
