Chelsea are “still in touch” with AC Milan over the potential transfer of Portugal forward Rafael Leão to Stamford Bridge for Graham Potter’s side, according to journalist Carlo Garganese.

The wide forward is currently in Qatar on World Cup duty with Fernando Santos’ Portugal squad.

What’s the latest on Leão?

Leão made an instant impact for his national side in Portugal’s opening World Cup clash with Ghana, scoring their third goal in a 3-2 victory over the African nation.

Having started the game as a substitute the 23-year-old will hope that his contribution off the bench will secure his place in Santos’ starting XI for their clash with Uruguay next week as they look to try and secure their place in the knockout stages of the tournament.

The forward’s immediate focus will be on trying to secure a first-ever World Cup title for Portugal, but the 12-time international will be well aware of interest in his signature from some of Europe’s top clubs.

And Garganese says that whilst Chelsea are still interested in securing the services of Leão in the future, there are also murmurs that Real Madrid could look to swoop for his signature as well.

What has Garganese said about Leão?

Garganese told GIVEMESPORT: “Leão’s contract runs out in 2024. Chelsea, they're still in touch, they're one of the main clubs, but they're not the only club that are interested in him.

“Real Madrid are also interested in him as well.”

Will Chelsea move for Leão?

Having scored just 17 goals in the Premier League so far this season, it does look as though Chelsea need alternative forward options, and it is unlikely that Potter would turn his nose up at the potential signing of Leão, though sources in Italy suggest that he will be sold for no less than £87m.

The forward, who reportedly has a £127m release clause in his contract, has been prolific in helping create goals in Serie A this season, scoring six goals and providing five assists in 14 league appearances from the left-wing so far this campaign, according to Transfermarkt.

According to Sky Italia, the Portugal "superstar" is asking for £170k-per-week to stay at the San Siro and with just 18 months on his current deal left, Chelsea may now begin to ramp up their interest in the forward in 2023.

For now, Leão’s mind is likely to be fully focused on trying to win the World Cup, but he knows that a strong set of performances on the world’s biggest stage could earn him a move to one of Europe’s top clubs.