Manchester City suffer fresh setback in pursuit of AC Milan star Rafael Leao

Reported Manchester City target Rafael Leao is close to signing a new contract with AC Milan, a notable setback to the Blues’ summer transfer plans.

City, who are widely claimed to be looking to sign a new left-back and at least one new midfielder this summer, have also been linked with potentially bolstering their wide attacking options.

Serie A stars Rafael Leao of AC Milan and Napoli’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia were both being ‘monitored’ by the Blues, with Leao having enjoyed a magnificent campaign for the Italian side.

The 23 year-old has been directly involved in 15 goals in 25 league appearances, and as a result has been subject to transfer interest from numerous Premier League sides and Spanish heavyweights Real Madrid.

It was revealed earlier this week that Txiki Begiristain is looking at wingers to offer Pep Guardiola more pace, following the past departures of Leroy Sane, Raheem Sterling and Gabriel Jesus.

However, hopes of that winger being AC Milan’s Leao have seemingly been dealt a fresh blow, as the Portuguese international is reportedly on the verge of signing a new deal at the San Siro.

Journalist Matteo Moretto reports that the 23 year-old is ‘closer than ever’ to agreeing a new contract with the Italian club, with discussions at the ‘final stretch’ following ‘positive’ talks in recent days.

The setback comes just days after fellow wide target Khvicha Kvaratskhelia agreed to sign a new deal with Napoli.

Kvaratskhelia looks set to pen a new contract until 2028, with the 22 year-old becoming one of the club’s highest earners, according to journalist Santi Auona.

Manchester City, who are still battling to win the Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup this season, are mooted to be preparing for a significant summer of business.

The Blues have been linked with Borussia Dortmund’s Jude Bellingham as well fellow midfielders Alexis Mac Allister, Mason Mount and Mateo Kovačić.

Ilkay Gundogan and Bernardo Silva could both leave the Etihad Stadium this summer, with Gundogan out of contract and subject to intense interest from La Liga leaders Barcelona.

Meanwhile PSG, who have also been linked with defender Aymeric Laporte, have recently reignited their interest in Bernardo Silva.