As the football world braces for another whirlwind transfer window, AC Milan appears to be leading the charge with a clear, albeit complex, strategy. With a flight to Singapore for pre-season duties on the horizon, the Rossoneri`s mercato activities are already soaring, signaling an ambitious intent to bolster their squad for the challenges ahead.
The club’s technical directors, Furlani and Tare, are meticulously navigating a landscape of high stakes and intricate negotiations, aiming to secure talent that aligns with their vision for competitive excellence. Their focus is distinctly on key positions that could redefine the team`s dynamics in the upcoming season.
The Pursuit of Pervis Estupiñán: A Left-Back Solution?
At the forefront of Milan`s defensive reinforcements is Brighton`s Ecuadorian left-back, Pervis Estupiñán. The path for the talented full-back appears to be nearing completion on the player`s side, with Milan having reportedly agreed to a five-year contract, potentially with the final year as an option, valued at a net 2.5 million Euros per season. This indicates a clear desire from the player to embark on a new adventure.
However, the familiar dance between clubs continues. Jorge Mendes, the player`s influential agent, is currently mediating to reduce Brighton`s initial asking price of 23 million Euros. Milan`s opening bid stood at 12 million Euros plus bonuses, with an aim to close the deal around 15 million. It is widely anticipated that the final figure will likely hover closer to 20 million Euros, a sum considered by Milan to be the absolute ceiling. Intense discussions are ongoing, and a resolution within the coming days is not out of the question. The hope within the Diavolo camp is for Estupiñán to arrive in Milan for his medicals early next week, ideally joining his new teammates in Singapore shortly thereafter. His Spanish passport is an advantageous detail, simplifying the bureaucratic hurdles often associated with non-EU players. After a recent, somewhat perplexing, U-turn involving English talent Archie Brown, Milan is proceeding with a commendable degree of caution, but the foundation for a positive outcome appears solid.
Marc Pubill: A Calculated Gamble for the Right Flank
On the opposite flank, Milan is exercising due diligence on Almería`s right-back, Marc Pubill. The club`s medical staff recently conducted comprehensive tests on Pubill`s left knee in Barcelona, which underwent surgery in the autumn of 2023. The results were reportedly comforting, yet this doesn`t guarantee a definitive acquisition. Milan`s approach here is measured; they are aware of the approximately 15 million Euro price tag and the interest from other clubs, notably Wolverhampton Wanderers. The Rossoneri have several alternative options for the right-back position, including Doué from Strasbourg, who commands a higher valuation of 25 million Euros plus bonuses. This position is deemed critical, and Milan is keen to avoid any missteps in their selection.
Dusan Vlahović: The Striker Saga Begins
While defensive reinforcements are pressing, the pursuit of a top-tier striker remains a significant priority for Milan. Dusan Vlahović of Juventus stands as the primary target for this pivotal role. However, the conditions for a successful bid are not yet fully aligned. Milan`s strategy hinges on Juventus securing another prominent forward, such as David, before they can make a decisive move for Vlahović. Should Juventus indeed bring in a new attacking option, and with Vlahović reportedly amenable to a move to Allegri`s court – a slightly ironic twist, given Allegri`s current role at Juventus – the path to acquisition could become considerably smoother.
Milan is prepared to offer Vlahović a substantial contract, though it will be notably lower than the 12 million Euros net (over 22 million gross) he is set to earn at Juventus in the 2025-26 season. Without Champions League football next season, Milan aims to offer around 6 million Euros net, plus performance-related bonuses tied to goals and Scudetto triumphs. This salary would incrementally increase in subsequent years, particularly with qualification for the top four (or five, depending on the evolving UEFA coefficient rankings).
The principal hurdle remains negotiations with Juventus, who are holding out for an offer that helps amortize the approximately 19.5 million Euro book value of the former Fiorentina forward. Talks regarding a contract renewal between Vlahović and Juventus have stalled, and the idea of a one-year extension followed by a low-cost loan with an obligation to buy holds little appeal for the player`s entourage. Milan is observing this complex situation with patience, waiting for the opportune moment to intervene. Simultaneously, other options are being assessed; Rasmus Højlund of Manchester United, for instance, has been proposed to Milan, and while he may not possess the characteristics of a “pure No. 9,” a loan deal remains a possibility not to be dismissed outright.
Completing the Midfield Puzzle
Beyond the primary targets, Milan is also actively pursuing Ardon Jashari to complete their midfield roster, indicating a holistic approach to squad development that spans across all key areas of the pitch.
AC Milan`s summer transfer activities are a testament to their ambition and meticulous planning. From securing a dynamic left-back to carefully evaluating right-back options and patiently strategizing for a marquee striker, the club is making calculated moves. The coming weeks promise further developments as the Rossoneri aim to build a squad capable of challenging at the highest level, transforming speculation into tangible on-field strength.
