AC Milan target Montpellier youngster as possible Rafael Leao replacement | OneFootball

AC Milan are eyeing up a move for Montpellier youngster Elye Wahi as a possible replacement for contract rebel Rafael Leao, according to TuttoMercatoWeb.

Milan have been trying to tie the Portuguese forward to a new long-term contract for several months, but both parties have struggled to reach an agreement.

Leao is attracting interest from Manchester City, who are monitoring the player’s development while readying their chequebooks for a mega bid.

However, the Rossoneri hierarchy have not given up on keeping Leao at the San Siro beyond June 2024, when his current deal will expire.

The club are reportedly planning to hold fresh talks with his agent Jorge Mendes who has already offered the services of his client to Spanish giants Real Madrid.

Milan are prepared to offer the 23-year-old a five-year deal worth €5 million per season while also paying off the €9-10m compensation he owes Sporting CP.

However, the Serie A champions are wary of Leao winding down his contract and may be forced to sell the player if an agreement is not found.

The Rossonerri have already begun the search for a possible replacement for the Portugal international and have set their sights on Montpellier youngster Wahi.

The 20-year-old versatile forward has caught the eye this season with 12 goals and an assist in 24 appearances for the Ligue 1 side.

Wahi’s ability to play either as a left-winger or as a central striker is said to have caught Milan’s eye as they look to bolster their attacking ranks.

However, the Italian giants may have to battle Stade Rennais for the young Frenchman, with Montpellier likely to demand at least €20m for their striker.

Wahi was on target in Montpellier’s 2-1 win over Clermont Foot as his second-half brace helped his side overturn a one-goal deficit to take maximum points.