As AC Milan prepares for its pre-season tour to Singapore, the club`s transfer market operations are anything but static. Far from a leisurely summer stroll, the Rossoneri`s hierarchy is navigating a complex web of negotiations, pushing aggressively to bolster their squad ahead of what promises to be a challenging new season. The focus is squarely on strategic acquisitions, particularly in defense and up front, where key reinforcements are deemed essential for the club’s ambitions.
Estupinan Edges Closer to Milan Move
The left-back position, a vital cog in modern attacking formations, has seen significant movement. Pervis Estupinan, the dynamic Ecuadorian defender from Brighton, appears tantalizingly close to donning the red and black stripes. Reports indicate a personal agreement on a five-year contract, reportedly worth €2.5 million net per season – a clear statement of intent from Milan and the player.
While the player`s agent, Jorge Mendes, is diligently working to bridge the gap between Brighton`s asking price (€23 million) and Milan`s preferred valuation (around €15 million), one might wonder if these negotiations are less about market value and more about a polite “dance of discounts.” Milan`s initial offer of €12 million plus bonuses was, predictably, rejected. However, contacts remain frequent, and a deal around the €20 million mark, including variables, is considered the club`s upper limit.
The Rossoneri are hopeful that Estupinan will arrive in Milan for medical examinations early next week before joining his new teammates in Singapore. His Spanish passport simplifies the registration process, avoiding the complexities associated with non-EU players. Following a previous incident involving Archie Brown`s unexpected U-turn, Milan`s management is proceeding with understandable caution, but the foundations for a successful acquisition appear solid.
The Right-Back Conundrum: Pubill`s Health Check
On the opposite flank, the search for a robust right-back continues with methodical precision. Marc Pubill of Almeria recently underwent medical tests in Barcelona, scrutinizing the condition of a left knee previously operated on in autumn 2023. The results, thankfully, are encouraging. However, a clean bill of health doesn`t automatically translate into a signed contract.
Milan`s cautious approach, perhaps a learned lesson from past escapades, dictates a thorough evaluation, especially given Almeria`s €15 million valuation and competition from clubs like Wolverhampton. Other options, such as Doué from Strasbourg, are on the table, though at a steeper price tag of €25 million plus bonuses. The Rossoneri management, it seems, prefers to measure twice and cut once when it comes to fundamental defensive pieces.
Vlahovic: The Apex Predator Milan Craves
The most ambitious target, however, lies in the attacking department: Dusan Vlahovic. The powerful Serbian striker from Juventus remains Milan`s prime candidate to lead the line. This is not merely a transfer; it`s a strategic chess match. Milan understands that a move for Vlahovic hinges on Juventus first securing another high-profile forward, such as Jonathan David – a classic domino effect in the transfer world.
Milan is reportedly prepared to offer Vlahovic a significant contract, albeit one considerably lower than the €12 million net he stands to earn at Juventus in the 2025-26 season. The Rossoneri`s proposal reportedly starts at €6 million net, supplemented by performance-based bonuses tied to goals and Scudetto victories, with provisions for future increases if the club consistently qualifies for the Champions League.
Juventus, on the other hand, is still hoping for a substantial offer for their striker, whose amortization on their balance sheet stands at approximately €19.5 million. The ongoing discussions about extending Vlahovic`s contract at Juventus have stalled, and even the idea of a short-term extension followed by a loan with an obligation to buy (at a lower figure) hasn`t gained traction with his entourage. Milan is observing the situation keenly, waiting for the opportune moment to make its decisive move. In the interim, alternative options like Rasmus Hojlund of Manchester United are being monitored, though a loan deal would be the preferred route given his profile.
Conclusion: A Calculated Summer Offensive
As the pre-season countdown continues and the flight to Singapore looms, AC Milan`s front office is working tirelessly behind the scenes. The delicate balance between ambition, financial prudence, and strategic patience defines their approach. Whether it`s securing a dynamic full-back like Estupinan, solidifying the defense with Pubill, or, most significantly, landing a prolific striker like Vlahovic, the summer market promises to be anything but dull for the Rossoneri faithful. The pieces are slowly falling into place, but in the intricate world of football transfers, the final whistle rarely blows until the ink is truly dry.
Benedict Kingsley