By Fraser Fletcher, Transfer Correspondent

15th Jun, 2023 | 2:18pm

Revealed: AC Milan close in on Loftus-Cheek as four Chelsea stars told to go - sources

AC Milan are still keen to sign Chelsea midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek this summer despite the exit of Paolo Maldini, sources have told Football Insider.

The Italian side have been long term admirers of the England international, 27, and aim to progress a deal later in the summer.

Its understood that the last week in June and the beginning of July could be key weeks for the Englishman’s future as the Serie A outfit will make a formal move for him.

But they face competition for Loftus-Cheek, who has been told he can leave Chelsea, from other clubs, including in the Premier League.

Chelsea are set to sell a number of stars this summer with Loftus-Cheek one of those who is available and expected to depart.

AC Milan have already made contact over a potential deal but have now paused their activity while they get their own house in order after club legend Paulo Maldini stepped down as sporting director.

A number of Premier League clubs also hold a strong interest with Brentford among those who are believed to have had a look at the 27-year-old.

Loftus-Cheek joins a list of names including Romelu Lukaku, Connor Gallagher and Edouard Mendy in looking for a new club this summer as Chelsea try to cash in for the window ahead.

Mauricio Pochettino is set to begin his tenure in a couple of weeks and wants a number of things in position including a thinner squad and Moises Caicedo, who Chelsea lead the race for.

Loftus-Cheek has made a total of 155 senior appearances for Chelsea scoring 13 times and grabbing 18 assists along the way. He has been capped at every level for England including 10 appearances for his country’s senior side.

In other news, Koulibaly wants to quit Chelsea