AC Milan, even following a challenging season, continues to hold significant appeal within the football world. Among the players reportedly attracted to a move to San Siro is Strasbourg`s promising right-back, Guela Doué. The interest is mutual; Doué is understood to be the preferred target for Milan`s management duo, Furlani and Tare, as they look to strengthen the squad for the upcoming season. Milan`s appreciation for the player is clear. So, is this transfer simply a formality? As is often the case in complex dealings, there`s a crucial third party involved: the selling club, Strasbourg, and its complicated relationship with another major European entity.
Milan`s Rationale for Doué and Offer Status
Milan`s enthusiasm for Doué stems from several key attributes. At 22 years old, he represents a valuable blend of current ability and future potential. His profile includes notable athleticism, defensive solidity, and commendable speed. These characteristics are seen as highly complementary to those of Alex Jimenez, another young right-back in Milan`s setup who offers a more offensive-minded approach. The potential pairing of Doué and Jimenez is envisioned as a dynamic, youthful, and interesting combination for the Rossoneri`s right flank.
Recognizing Doué as their priority, Milan has reportedly made an initial offer of €15 million. A second, improved proposal is currently being prepared and is expected to be formally submitted in the coming days. This indicates Milan`s serious intent to secure the player.
The Chelsea Factor: A Complicating Connection
The significant variable casting a shadow over this potential transfer is Chelsea Football Club. Chelsea is also understood to be interested in Doué, and crucially, shares the same ownership group (BlueCo) with RC Strasbourg. While Chelsea currently boasts captain Reece James and the capable Malo Gusto (acquired from Lyon two years ago) as their right-back options – a formidable duo in their own right – their reported interest in Doué introduces a notable risk for Milan. The concern is that the Blues could, leveraging their shared ownership status, potentially intervene and redirect the player towards Stamford Bridge, effectively blocking Milan`s move for their top target. It`s a scenario where the `family` ties could override external interest, presenting a unique and frustrating hurdle for the Italian club.
Adding Intrigue: The Maignan Subplot
Adding another layer of complexity and potential friction to the relationship between Milan and Chelsea is a recent development involving Milan`s star goalkeeper, Mike Maignan. Discussions regarding Maignan, who was reportedly a primary target for Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca, took place between the clubs in May and June. However, Milan ultimately decided to retain Maignan, considering him a fundamental pillar of the team, a decision perhaps solidified following the appointment of Vincenzo Allegri. While perfectly within Milan`s rights, blocking the transfer of a player highly sought after by Chelsea is unlikely to have been received with enthusiasm by the London club`s hierarchy. Whether this previous negotiation will have any residual impact on the current Doué talks remains speculative, but it certainly adds an element of intrigue to the dynamics between the two clubs and the shared ownership network.
In conclusion, AC Milan has identified their man in Guela Doué, and the player appears receptive to the move. Milan is preparing a serious offer to bring the talented defender to Italy. However, the unusual circumstance of Chelsea sharing ownership with Strasbourg, coupled with the recent history involving the Maignan discussions, transforms what might otherwise be a straightforward negotiation into a potentially complex and unpredictable transfer saga. Milan`s success in signing Doué hinges not only on their financial commitment but also on navigating the intricacies of this interconnected ownership landscape.