‘By far the best on the pitch’: Media wowed by reported Spurs attacking target’s ‘intoxicating’ European display

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Tottenham Hotspur have been linked with Rafael Leao in recent days.

According to a report from Calciomercato.it, Spurs are one of several clubs eyeing the AC Milan winger.

Leao has become one of the most-watched forwards in Europe following his rise to prominence.

Last season, the Portugal international registered 14 goals and 12 assists in all competitions.

In Serie A, Leao bagged 11 goals and 10 assists as the Rossoneri won the Scudetto for the first time since 2011.

And this season, the 23-year-old remains in scintillating form, with four goals and seven assists from 10 outings.

‘Devastating’

On Wednesday, Leao stood out even as Milan fell to a 3-0 loss to Chelsea in the Champions League.

Pianeta Milan wrote: ‘As is often the case, the Portuguese is by far the best on the pitch for Milan.

‘There is no shortage of the usual irresistible snatches and intoxicating dribbles that disorient the opponents.

‘Stefano Pioli wisely saves him the final 20 minutes by already thinking about the match against Juventus.’

Meanwhile, Calciomercato said Leao was ‘the only light in the general greyness.

‘The devastating acceleration with which he beats three opponents before setting De Ketelaere deserved something more.’

And Eurosport wrote: ‘The extra man of Milan, as usual.

‘When he’s switched on, he is unstoppable, and the main dangerous actions of the Rossoneri arise from him.

‘But not even he manages to overturn the Rossoneri evening.’

Not everyone was happy with Leao’s display, however.

Pundit Steve McManaman slated the player’s workrate during Wednesday night’s loss at Stamford Bridge.

“There’s no doubting his talent, Leao, but look at his work-rate,”  he told BT Sport.

“Look at him now. He’s walking! He’s got no interest in going the other way.”

Nonetheless, Leao did do well overall, on a night when Milan were second best in most departments.