Chelsea boss Graham Potter hints at a move for AC Milan’s Rafael Leao after making a U-turn when speaking about players

CHELSEA boss Graham Potter has hinted at an impressive transfer swoop for AC Milan’s Rafael Leao.

This is after a U-turn when it comes to talking about players from other clubs.

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Former Brighton gaffer Potter is already impressing after just four games at Stamford Bridge, leading his new side to three straight wins.

However, the tactician was in no mood to discuss goals last week when asked if Chelsea were still interested in Manchester United underdog Cristiano Ronaldo.

Potter said, “We can spend all day asking these questions, but I won’t talk about them.

“If you are not our players, I will not speak to you.”

However, the Chelsea boss has now hinted at a possible fall for Leao by openly praising Milan’s star striker ahead of tonight’s Champions League clash at the San Siro.

Ex-Blues boss Thomas Tuchel had rejected an offer for the 23-year-old in the summer.

But alleged owner Todd Boehly remains determined to bring Leao to Stamford Bridge.

The Portuguese star has impressed with four goals and four assists in eight games this season.

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And Potter admits he was blown away by Leao’s form for the Italian champion.

However, the gaffer refused to delve further into his interest, respecting the fact that Leao is tied with Milan until 2024.

Potter said, “You can see Leao’s quality and ability, it’s obvious.

“But he is part of a strong team. We have to respect that [he is under contract].”

Leao is sure to impress tonight after being on the winning side in Milan’s 3-0 defeat at Stamford Bridge last week.

The Italians remain hopeful of tying Leao to a new contract but the player is believed to be interested in a Premier League move.

Chelsea have developed ties with Milan in recent years, allowing them to sign Fikayo Tomori in 2021 for just £25million after an impressive loan spell.

They also let Olivier Giroud join Milan in the same window for a small fee, with the striker and Tomori both playing key roles in the club’s first Serie A title win since 2011.