The summer transfer window is a whirlwind of speculation, whispers, and strategic maneuvers, a time when football clubs meticulously plan their future. Amidst this frenzy, veteran Italian football pundit Carlo Pellegatti, known for his incisive commentary, has offered a refreshing dose of reality regarding AC Milan`s intricate market operations. Speaking on Tmw Radio`s `Calciomercato e Ritiri,` Pellegatti peeled back the layers of rumor, revealing Milan`s true priorities and, crucially, their unwavering stance against aiding a direct rival.
A Promising New Face: Jashari`s Arrival
Before delving into the complex striker sagas, Pellegatti expressed genuine enthusiasm for a new arrival, Jashari. Describing him as a “complete player” who has already “won the duel with Ederson,” Pellegatti views this acquisition as a significant coup for Milan, signaling a promising addition to their midfield ranks. A solid, understated move, perhaps, compared to the headline-grabbing striker pursuits.
The Vlahovic Conundrum: Dispelling Juventus Links
The focus then inevitably shifted to the highly-coveted striker position, and specifically, the recurring links to Juventus`s Dusan Vlahovic. While acknowledging the widespread fascination among fans, Pellegatti was unequivocal: Vlahovic has “never been given as the first on the list” by Milan`s inner circle. This isn`t to say Milan wouldn`t appreciate his talent – “the Milan environment could relaunch him,” Pellegatti mused, recognizing his potential to excite the fanbase. However, the prospect of a deal involving a direct exchange or even indirect assistance to Juventus, particularly concerning Malick Thiaw, was firmly dismissed.
– Carlo Pellegatti
Thiaw`s Unquestionable Value: A Key Defender Stays Put
Pellegatti`s statement underscores Milan`s strategic independence and a clear refusal to strengthen a rival, especially at the expense of their own valuable assets. Malick Thiaw, it turns out, is not merely a bargaining chip. His value is recognized beyond Milan, with interest from Premier League giants like Newcastle. More tellingly, even Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri reportedly views Thiaw as “one of his references at the back.” This dual interest only solidifies Milan`s resolve to retain the defender, making any Vlahovic-Thiaw swap highly improbable, bordering on ludicrous from Milan`s perspective.
Hojlund: The Priority Target Emerges
So, if not Vlahovic, then who? Pellegatti pointed decisively towards Rasmus Hojlund. “Hojlund is now top of the list, pay attention,” he advised, indicating a significant shift in Milan`s attacking priorities. The path to acquiring the young Danish striker, currently at Atalanta, is, however, fraught with financial complexities. Manchester United`s reported asking price of €30 million presents a considerable hurdle. Milan`s current strategy appears to lean towards a loan deal, with an intermediary actively working on the operation. Yet, Pellegatti cautioned that a permanent transfer for €30-35 million would be “difficult to arrive at,” highlighting the delicate balance between ambition and financial prudence.
The Broader Striker Search: A Refined Approach
The narrative also touched upon other potential attacking options that have seemingly fallen by the wayside. Names like Jackson and Nunez are off the table, and Goncalo Ramos remains a “rebus” – perhaps too much of an unknown quantity. Other alternatives are dismissed as mere “bets” that Milan cannot afford to take given their aspirations. This paints a picture of a club carefully sifting through options, seeking a proven yet accessible talent rather than engaging in speculative gambles.
Pellegatti`s insights provide a clear, unvarnished look at AC Milan`s current transfer philosophy. It`s a strategy defined by independence, shrewd negotiation, and a steadfast refusal to engage in deals that inadvertently empower rivals. While the Vlahovic saga might continue to capture headlines, Pellegatti`s analysis redirects attention to the true protagonist of Milan`s striker search: Rasmus Hojlund. As the transfer window progresses, fans will be watching closely to see if Milan`s strategic patience and direct approach will yield their desired outcome in this complex, high-stakes game of football chess.