Chelsea and Todd Boehly would love to sign AC Milan winger Rafael Leao, says journalist Pete O'Rourke.

The 23-year-old was a target for the west London club during the summer transfer window, but Milan were unwilling to do business.

GiveMeSport Transfer Verdict

What is the latest news involving Leao?

Milan sporting director Paolo Maldini recently confirmed that Chelsea did make an approach for Leao.

Speaking to Sport Mediaset, he said: "Chelsea’s officially written offer did not arrive but on an informal level it did. Of course, it was rejected."

This may not be the end of things, though, with Maldini admitting that getting the Portuguese attacker to sign a new deal is proving to be a difficult task.

Leao's current contract, which is thought to have a €150m (£131m) release clause in it, expires in 2024.

What has O'Rourke said about Leao and Chelsea?

O'Rourke says Chelsea would love to add Leao to their squad as they look to address their issues in front of goal.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, the journalist said: "Chelsea did make an approach during the summer transfer window, which was flatly rejected by AC Milan.

"Obviously, we know they've had problems scoring goals over the last season and even this season, so I'm sure Leao is somebody they would love to bring to Stamford Bridge. But it seems Milan are pretty insistent that they see his future at the San Siro."

Can Chelsea still have a good season without Leao?

It is true. Chelsea definitely did have some trouble finding the back of the net last term.

While the Blues were able to score 76 goals in the Premier League, both Manchester City (99) and Liverpool (94) managed to register more (via WhoScored), so they have some work to do there if the aim is to challenge for the title.

Leao, who came up with over 20 goal contributions in all competitions for Milan during the 2021/22 campaign, could have helped them out in that department.

Fortunately for the English club, they were still able to improve their attack by bringing Raheem Sterling and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to Stamford Bridge.

If the two attackers can replicate the sort of form that they have shown at their previous sides, then there is no reason why Graham Potter's men cannot have a good season.

Sterling has already netted four times for Chelsea since joining from City, so there is definitely reason for supporters to be optimistic.