As the summer transfer window gathers momentum, AC Milan finds itself in the familiar whirlwind of negotiations, balancing strategic acquisitions with the inevitable challenges of the modern football market. With the recent high-profile arrivals of Luka Modric and Ardon Jashari already bolstering the squad, the Rossoneri hierarchy is now meticulously focusing on two critical areas: solidifying the right-back position and securing a potent force in attack.
The Right-Back Resolution: Zachary Athekame Nears Milan
The quest for a definitive right-back appears to be reaching its crescendo. Zachary Athekame, the promising talent from Young Boys, has emerged as the prime candidate to fill this crucial role. Milan’s pursuit has seen an initial offer of €7 million steadily increase to €8 million, a testament to their conviction in the young defender. However, Young Boys, seemingly emboldened by reported interest from France and England, are holding firm, aiming for a fee of at least €10 million. It’s a classic transfer standoff, where both sides are playing their cards close to their chest, hoping for the other to blink first.
Reports suggest that Milan`s sporting director, with a renewed sense of urgency, has intensified negotiations. The aim is to bridge the remaining financial gap with performance-based bonuses, ensuring a deal is struck swiftly, potentially within the coming days. Athekame’s recent inclusion in Young Boys’ match squad against Basel, albeit with uncertainty over his playing time, indicates that a resolution might be just around the corner, perhaps even before the weekend arrives. Milan`s hope is to avoid protracted sagas, allowing new signings to integrate seamlessly into the team`s pre-season preparations.
The Striker Conundrum: Vlahovic vs. Hojlund
While the defensive piece of the puzzle seems to be falling into place, the attacking department presents a more intricate challenge. Dusan Vlahovic remains AC Milan’s preferred choice to lead the line. Yet, acquiring the Serbian striker is proving to be a masterclass in complexity. Juventus’s demands, coupled with Vlahovic’s significant wage expectations, mean Milan’s margin for maneuver is currently quite limited. It’s a high-stakes poker game, with the outcome heavily dependent on Juventus`s own strategic decisions and Vlahovic`s willingness to adjust his personal terms. The question isn`t just about his transfer fee, but also the daunting salary structure he brings.
Consequently, the alternative, Rasmus Hojlund of Manchester United, is gaining considerable traction. Hojlund, who could become more accessible should Manchester United successfully secure another high-profile striker like Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig, represents a potentially smoother path. It’s a testament to the domino effect of modern football transfers – one major move can trigger a cascade of others, opening doors that were previously sealed. For Milan, patience might indeed be a virtue in this particular pursuit, but not too much; the season waits for no one.
Navigating Departures: Strategic Exits and Retained Talent
Beyond the incoming transfers, Milan’s management is also diligently working on streamlining the squad. Players like Yacine Adli and Ismael Bennacer are reportedly being evaluated for their future roles, indicating a potential `screening` process to determine if they fit the long-term vision or if moves away are necessary for both parties.
Intriguingly, the club recently rebuffed a substantial €30 million offer from Newcastle for defender Malick Thiaw. This decision underscores coach Massimiliano Allegri`s high regard for Thiaw, suggesting he is considered an integral part of the team`s defensive core. Should circumstances change and Thiaw eventually depart, Milan would look to re-enter the market for a replacement, with young talents like Giorgio Comuzzo and Alessandro Leoni, alongside the more experienced Berat Djimsiti, being monitored.
Finally, there`s the situation of Noah Okafor. With some interest emerging from English clubs, Milan is clear: a permanent sale or a loan with an obligation to buy, valued at no less than €20 million, is the only acceptable outcome. Without these specific conditions being met, the Swiss international will remain part of the Rossoneri setup, a clear stance that highlights Milan`s resolve in maximizing player valuations and maintaining squad stability.
Milan’s summer strategy is a delicate dance between ambition and pragmatism. Having already secured key midfield reinforcements, the focus now shifts to fine-tuning the squad with a versatile right-back and a proven goal-scorer. The negotiations are complex, the stakes are high, but for the Rossoneri faithful, the anticipation of a strengthened squad for the upcoming campaign remains palpable.
