AC Milan are prepared to part ways with star forward Rafael Leao this summer to finance a permanent move for on-loan Chelsea attacker Joao Felix, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport.
Felix arrived at San Siro in January on a short-term loan from Chelsea and has quickly impressed the Milan hierarchy. His performances have reportedly convinced the Rossoneri to explore a permanent deal, but the financial commitment required could necessitate the sale of Leao.
Milan’s other major sellable asset is Theo Hernandez, who has been linked with a move away due to his contract situation. The club may consider offloading the left-back this summer to avoid losing him for free when his deal expires in 2026.
Felix’s move to Milan was facilitated by his agent, Jorge Mendes, who also represents head coach Sergio Conceicao. Mendes played a crucial role in securing Felix’s loan in January, and a permanent deal could be on the cards if Milan can raise the necessary funds. The Portuguese forward has already made an impact, scoring in the club’s Coppa Italia quarter-final victory over Roma.
Meanwhile, Leao has struggled to replicate his best form this season, managing just nine goals in 34 appearances. The Portuguese winger turned down a move to Saudi Arabia in January, but his future remains uncertain, with Barcelona and other European giants monitoring the situation. His contract at Milan runs until 2028, meaning the Serie A club can demand a high transfer fee.
For now, Felix and Leao will be hoping to play together for Milan until the end of the season. However, their only start together so far ended in disappointment, as Milan suffered a 1-0 Champions League defeat to Feyenoord on Wednesday. The immediate focus for both players is overturning that deficit in the second leg and securing European football for next season via Serie A.
Chelsea fans will be watching closely, as Felix’s permanent move to Milan could mean a significant transfer fee coming into Stamford Bridge, potentially giving the Blues more financial flexibility in the summer market.