Chelsea lose major Rafael Leao transfer leverage after AC Milan finally settle £17.5m dispute

Rafael Leao looked to be one of the most coveted players in the summer transfer window but an exit from AC Milan could now be off the cards amid interest from Chelsea

Chelsea appear to have lost significant leverage in the race to sign Rafael Leao this summer. The AC Milan star was heavily linked with a move to Stamford Bridge in the summer but a move failed to materialise.

With the fee yet to be paid, it became a huge factor over his future. According to A Bola, as quoted by Football Italia, Chelsea pledged to pay the fine to Sporting if Leao left the Rossoneri this summer.

But, desperate to hold onto the forward's services, the fine has finally been settled. According to French publication RMC Sport, Lille have agreed to pay Sporting, with a remaining €1million (£872,000) being left to Leao.

The report states that Milan will then reimburse 90% of the fee the French side are paying. Lille have also reportedly been guaranteed a slice of the profit on a future transfer of Leao, who has a €100million (£87.2million) release clause - though reports from Gazzetta dello Sport claim a release clause in his new contract could be worth around €170million (£148.3million).

"I think the stage is set for someone like him to step out from the crowd and take that spotlight. I’m looking forward to seeing him tomorrow."