‘I was up here screaming’: Rio Ferdinand left stunned by Tottenham Hotspur target yesterday, says he’s got ‘no respect’

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Rio Ferdinand was really impressed with Tottenham Hotspur target Rafael Leao last night.

Speaking on BT Sport (5/10 8:50pm), Ferdinand was watching Leao play against Chelsea.

Leao couldn’t prevent the Italian champions falling to a 3-0 defeat in Graham Potter’s first home Champions League tie.

However, the Portuguese international was impressive on the ball, giving Reece James and Trevoh Chalobah plenty of problems.

A report from Calciomercato.it suggests that Tottenham are interested in signing the forward.

Leao’s contract runs out in 2024, and AC Milan may look to move him on next summer if he doesn’t sign a new deal.

Spurs are one of a number of teams interested in Leao, and there’s likely to be a lot of competition for the 23-year-old.

Described by teammate Fikayo Tomori as ‘electric’, Leao would be a seriously exciting signing for Tottenham.

His ability to create chances and drive into the middle of the pitch from out wide would suit Antonio Conte’s style.

He would also give the Italian manager a dynamic option who can beat people, something his current attackers lack.

Ferdinand impressed with Leao

Ferdinand offered some half-time analysis on Leao, and was clearly very impressed with how he dealt with Chelsea’s defenders.

Leao received the ball after a long pass from Sandro Tonali, before easily dribbling past Chalobah and James.

He then used his quick feet to play a pass across the box into the path of Charles De Ketelaere who missed AC Milan’s best chance of the first half.

“Sometimes he’s audacious, in this situation he’s got one thought in his mind, get to the danger area, commit people.” Ferdinand said.

“He shows pace, guile, skills, he’s unpredictable, close control, he’s got it all in there, it’s just the end product you’re looking for at times.

“He’s got no respect for any reputation.”

After the match, Ferdinand added to his analysis:

“Leao came out of the blocks flying, and I was up here screaming, ‘Oh my gosh’.

“He was moving people, he faces him (James) up here, takes a great touch and runs inside.

“At that point James in his head is going, ‘Uh oh, OK I understand’.”