As the summer transfer window dwindles to its final, frantic hours, AC Milan finds itself embroiled in a high-stakes balancing act. The iconic “Diavolo” is working tirelessly behind the scenes, attempting to secure crucial reinforcements while navigating the complex web of player demands, club valuations, and fierce competition. It`s a true test of strategic acumen, where every move on the market board could define the season`s trajectory.
The Rabiot Rhapsody: A Midfield Maestro in the Making?
At the forefront of Milan`s ambitions is the pursuit of French midfielder Adrien Rabiot. Currently with Marseille, Rabiot`s relationship with his club and coach Roberto De Zerbi appears to be, shall we say, “complicated.” His formidable mother-agent, Veronique, initially put up a solid wall, signaling Rabiot`s desire to remain in Marseille. However, recent developments suggest an opening, a slight crack in that wall, prompting a fresh round of contact with the Milanese club from Via Aldo Rossi.
This pursuit isn`t just a whim; Rabiot is reportedly a specific request from the club`s coach, who recognizes the former Juventus player`s blend of technical skill and physical presence. Yet, securing Rabiot is far from simple. Marseille`s asking price of €15 million is considered steep by Milan`s management. Furthermore, the potential arrival of Rabiot directly influences the fate of another midfielder: Yunus Musah. Milan reportedly has an agreement in place to sell Musah to Atalanta for €25 million plus bonuses, a move that would likely be finalized should Rabiot`s transfer materialize. It`s a domino effect, where one piece`s fall dictates the movement of another, adding an extra layer of tension to the negotiations.
The Akanji Conundrum: A Defensive Anchor in Demand
Milan`s defensive aspirations revolve primarily around Manchester City`s Swiss international, Manuel Akanji. The Rossoneri have reportedly reached an agreement with the English champions, valuing Akanji at €15 million plus bonuses. While the clubs seem to be on the same page, the player himself presents the primary hurdle.
Akanji currently commands a salary of €5 million annually, a figure he is reportedly unwilling to significantly reduce. More critically, his ambition to play in the prestigious Champions League weighs heavily on his decision. In this particular “Champions League or bust” scenario, Tottenham appears to hold a distinct advantage over Milan, with Crystal Palace lingering in a distant third. Milan`s Technical Director, Tare, openly admitted that despite Akanji being the “ideal profile” due to his experience and quality, they “haven`t convinced him yet.” The clock is ticking, and the allure of European football`s elite competition is a powerful bargaining chip.
Forward Thinking: Allegri`s (Tactical) Blueprint and The Final Pieces
Regarding the attacking department, Milan`s strategy seems clearer, driven by their coach`s preferred tactical setup. With formations leaning towards a three-man defense (either 3-5-2 or 3-4-2-1), the need for additional forwards, beyond the already acquired Nkunku, appears limited. The current roster boasts talent such as Gimenez, Nkunku, Leao, Pulisic, and occasionally Saelemaekers and Chukwueze (for whom Fulham has yet to make a concrete offer).
However, the transfer market always holds surprises. Tare hasn`t entirely closed the door on a potential Gimenez-Dovbyk swap deal with Roma, indicating a willingness to “evaluate” such an exchange, but reiterating that “we will not add an extra player” numerically. Interestingly, former Al Hilal striker Mitrovic was reportedly offered to Milan but received no positive response – a polite “no, thank you” to a seemingly available option.
The Final Whistle Approaches
With Furlani (AD), Tare (DT), and even the legendary Ibrahimovic orchestrating Milan`s transfer operations, the pressure is immense. Every phone call, every negotiation, every decision carries significant weight. As the deadline looms, the Rossoneri`s management is engaged in a intricate dance between ambition and financial pragmatism, hoping to secure the crucial pieces that will complete their puzzle for the upcoming season. The transfer window`s final days are always a spectacle of drama and last-minute twists, and AC Milan is currently center stage, with the footballing world watching their every move.