Chelsea held discussions with Rafael Leao's representatives earlier in the transfer window and 'there is interest' in bringing the AC Milan star to Stamford Bridge, according to journalist Simon Phillips.

The Blues picked up their second win of the season thanks to seeing off Leicester City on Saturday, but head coach Thomas Tuchel could freshen up his squad ahead of Thursday's 11pm deadline.

GiveMeSport Transfer Update

GiveMeSport Transfer Update

What's the latest news involving Leao?

According to Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport, Chelsea will have to fork out up to £127million if they want to tempt AC Milan into selling Leao.

The report suggests the west Londoners will find it difficult to seal the deal ahead of the transfer window slamming shut as the nine-cap Portugal international is happy at the San Siro.

Chelsea could reportedly include the likes of Michy Batshuayi, Armando Broja, Callum Hudson-Odoi, Hakim Ziyech, Ross Barkley or Conor Gallagher as part of their proposal in order to drive down the Serie A giants' demands.

It is understood that the Blues held club-to-club negotiations with AC Milan earlier this month as they attempt to make a breakthrough in their pursuit of Leao.

The winger has been high on Chelsea’s list of targets since the transfer window reopened for business and is coveted by the club's hierarchy.

What has Simon Phillips said about Leao?

Phillips understands that Chelsea are keeping an eye on Leao and have been in dialogue with the AC Milan star's representatives.

However, the journalist has hinted that a late deal is unlikely as the Blues have not headed to the negotiating table.

Phillips told GIVEMESPORT: "I've been told that there is interest there, but there's not been anything recent.

"He's definitely a player that Chelsea like and they have had contact with his agents, but this was months ago, as far as I'm aware."

Would Leao be a good signing for Chelsea?

Meeting AC Milan's financial expectations would result in Leao surpassing Romelu Lukaku as Chelsea's record arrival.

That would be a huge statement of intent and could be viewed as a major risk, particularly considering the 23-year-old has made less than 150 appearances during his senior club career.

However, Leao's form has shown that he would be capable of making an impact at Stamford Bridge as he has found the back of the net 28 times and registered a further 22 assists for AC Milan.

As the Portuguese star has entered the final two years of his £33,000-per-week contract at the San Siro, Chelsea could see this as a window of opportunity.