The transfer market, much like a perfectly executed counter-attack, can change direction in a blink. For AC Milan, this window has been a masterclass in swift pivots, with their search for an attacking reinforcement undergoing a significant transformation. Once seemingly set on a promising young talent, the Rossoneri have now shifted their gaze toward two established, albeit contrasting, profiles: Christopher Nkunku of Chelsea and Artem Dovbyk of Roma.
The Harder Hypothesis, Hardened Off
Just 48 hours prior, the name Conrad Harder, a robust center-forward from Sporting Lisbon, was on the lips of Milanisti. The deal appeared to be a formality, a quiet acquisition to bolster the squad. However, in the unpredictable ballet of football transfers, a minor misstep can lead to a complete collapse. Sporting`s inability to secure Fotis Ioannidis from Panathinaikos, coupled with a late surge in agent demands, caused Milan to withdraw. Young Harder, who likely envisioned a dramatic change of scenery and a new chapter in Italy, now finds himself in a narrative twist, perhaps heading to Rennes or remaining in Lisbon – a poignant reminder of how quickly dreams, like balloons, can drift away.
Nkunku: The Marquee Maneuver, Marred by Mysteries
With Harder off the table, Milan’s focus has intensified on Christopher Nkunku, the versatile forward from Chelsea. This isn`t just a casual glance; negotiations are reportedly advancing rapidly. Nkunku`s pedigree is undeniable: 58 goals for RB Leipzig between 2021 and 2023, showcasing blistering pace, technical prowess, and an uncanny ability to destabilize defenses. Chelsea acquired him for over €60 million in what has been described as a “classic Boehly-era” operation – a promising young talent at a premium price. Now, however, that price has significantly depreciated.
Christopher Nkunku in action for Chelsea.
Current estimates suggest Nkunku could be available for €35-40 million, with Chelsea preferring a permanent sale given their existing loan commitments and desire to streamline their squad. The relationship between Nkunku and Chelsea, specifically with manager Enzo Maresca, has reportedly “gone south.” A Champions League club would be ideal for the Frenchman, and while Bayern Munich has reportedly shown interest, Milan`s enduring appeal remains strong.
Yet, Nkunku’s potential arrival comes with a few prominent footnotes:
- Injury Concerns: After missing a significant portion of the 2023-2024 season due to injury, Milan is exercising caution. Memories of the Charles De Ketelaere saga, where a promising player struggled to find form, might contribute to this meticulous assessment.
- Wage Demands: Nkunku`s Chelsea salary is substantial. Milan would need to negotiate a considerable reduction, likely aiming for an agreement around €5 million per season.
- Tactical Fit: Nkunku is not a traditional target man. While he excels with pace, unpredictability, and the ability to operate across the attacking line – even as a central striker or behind a main forward at Leipzig and Chelsea – his capacity to hold up play and bring others into the game is less pronounced. He offers rapid counter-attacks and dynamic movement, a tantalizing prospect but one requiring careful integration into Milan`s system.
Dovbyk: The Direct Route, Perhaps a Loan?
In stark contrast to Nkunku`s versatility, Artem Dovbyk presents himself as a pure number nine. Milan has reportedly inquired about the Ukrainian striker, currently with Roma. His numbers speak volumes: 24 goals in his Spanish league campaign with Girona and 12 in his debut season for Roma are compelling statistics for a center-forward.
Artem Dovbyk, a potential loan target for AC Milan.
The idea of a loan move for Dovbyk, while not straightforward, is far from impossible. With Ferguson now reportedly Roma’s primary attacking choice, Dovbyk is no longer deemed indispensable. However, any deal for Milan would trigger a chain reaction: Roma would need to find a replacement striker themselves, a classic scramble at the tail end of a transfer window, adding another layer of complexity to an already intricate market.
The Unpredictable Pitch
As the transfer window progresses, Milan finds itself at a critical juncture, balancing ambition with practicality. The pursuit of Nkunku represents a high-stakes, potentially high-reward gamble, while Dovbyk offers a more traditional, perhaps immediate, solution on loan. The unfolding narrative underscores the chaotic beauty of football transfers, where yesterday`s certainties become today`s forgotten footnotes, and new possibilities emerge with breathtaking speed. Milan`s attack hangs in the balance, awaiting the final flourish of a pen or the decisive handshake that will define their forward line for the season to come.