The summer transfer window is often a theatrical spectacle, and for AC Milan, the curtain has been particularly busy. Fresh off the successful acquisitions of Luka Modric (yes, that Modric, in a surprising turn for 2025!) and the resolution of the Jashari saga, the Rossoneri management is now fully focused on solidifying key positions, hinting at an intriguing season ahead. The emphasis appears to be on strategic additions and careful squad trimming, a balancing act that defines success in modern football.
The Right-Back Realm: Chasing Zachary Athekame
One immediate priority for Milan appears to be the right-back slot, with Zachary Athekame from Young Boys emerging as the prime candidate. Negotiations have intensified, illustrating Milan’s determined approach. The Rossoneri initially tabled a €7 million offer, swiftly increasing it to €8 million, a clear sign of their intent. However, Young Boys, seemingly playing the market shrewdly, are holding out for at least €10 million, citing alleged higher bids from French and English clubs. Milan`s director, Tare, is reportedly applying significant pressure, aiming to bridge this valuation gap through strategic bonuses. The objective is clear: secure Athekame`s signature by the end of the week, potentially as early as Thursday or Friday. Whether Athekame features in Young Boys` upcoming match against Basel remains to be seen, but a strong performance could certainly accelerate matters.
Striking Gold: Vlahovic, Hojlund, and the Perpetual Puzzle
The quest for a definitive striker continues to be Milan`s most complex mission. Dusan Vlahovic remains at the summit of their wishlist, a testament to his raw talent despite a somewhat turbulent spell at Juventus. Yet, the path to acquiring the Serbian international is fraught with obstacles: Juventus`s financial demands and Vlahovic`s substantial wage requests offer little room for Milan to maneuver in the current market climate. It seems the Bianconeri are in no rush, or perhaps they`re simply enjoying the suspense.
Consequently, the stock of Rasmus Hojlund as an alternative is steadily rising. The young Danish forward presents a seemingly more attainable target. Reports indicate Manchester United has made a substantial offer for Benjamin Sesko, which, if successful, would further limit Hojlund`s playing opportunities at Old Trafford. Such a scenario could inadvertently pave Milan`s way to a swifter, and perhaps more pragmatic, acquisition.
Shifting Sands: Potential Departures from San Siro
While reinforcements are arriving, the squad must inevitably be streamlined. Players like Yacine Adli and Ismael Bennacer are on the list for potential departures, though their situations are less urgent than some. More notably, Malick Thiaw has attracted renewed interest from Newcastle, with a reported €30 million offer firmly rejected by Milan. Thiaw is highly valued by Milan`s coaching staff, making his sale a reluctant, if not improbable, move. Should Thiaw unexpectedly depart, Milan`s contingency plan involves younger talents like Alessandro Comuzzo and Lorenzo Leoni, alongside the more experienced Berat Djimsiti.
Finally, the situation of Noah Okafor is also being closely monitored. There`s reported interest from English clubs, but Milan`s stance is unequivocal: only a permanent transfer or a loan with an obligatory purchase clause, valued at no less than €20 million, will be entertained. Without these conditions, the Swiss forward will remain at San Siro, adding depth to the attacking options.
AC Milan`s summer transfer window is shaping up to be a meticulous exercise in strategic squad building, balancing ambitious targets with pragmatic player movements. As the days tick by, fans eagerly await the final pieces of what promises to be a highly competitive puzzle.