The summer transfer window is often a theatrical spectacle, a period where ambitions clash with valuations, and whispers morph into concrete offers. For AC Milan, this window is proving no different, with the Rossoneri orchestrating a complex dance of negotiations. At the heart of their current efforts are two Swiss talents: a promising right-back nearing a deal, and a determined midfielder locked in a test of wills with his current club.
The Strategic Pivot: Zachary Athekame Nears San Siro
After performing a rather swift U-turn from the admittedly pricier Guela Doué, AC Milan has strategically pivoted towards a younger, arguably less burdened prospect: Zachary Athekame. The 19-year-old Swiss-Nigerian right-back, currently plying his trade with Young Boys, has caught Milan`s eye, prompting a prompt offer of approximately €7 million.
While Italian rivals Udinese and Bologna have also expressed interest, Milan appears to have gained a crucial advantage: the player`s personal endorsement. The Rossoneri are reportedly confident of closing the deal swiftly, buoyed by a minimal gap between their offer and Young Boys` asking price, as well as the evidently excellent working relationship between Milan’s director, Igli Tare, and the Swiss club.
Athekame`s profile suggests a player with raw potential. He boasts eight UEFA Champions League appearances from the past season and has accumulated 30 senior appearances in the Swiss top flight, 18 of which were starts. His attributes are described as a compelling blend of pace, precise interceptions, and surgically clean tackles. Interestingly, before settling into his defensive role, Athekame honed his skills as a pure winger, which likely contributes to his attacking prowess from the flank.
The classic query inevitably arises with any young talent venturing into the unforgiving landscape of Serie A and the demanding cauldron of San Siro: Is he ready? Milan`s scouts, however, seem to possess an almost paternal confidence in Athekame`s personality, noting his aggressive on-field demeanor and apparent fearlessness. Perhaps the Rossoneri are betting on a less-known gem, hoping he’ll shine brighter than more established, and far more expensive, options.
The Unyielding Standoff: Ardon Jashari`s Milan Ambition
If the Athekame deal represents a swift, decisive strike, the saga involving another Swiss talent, midfielder Ardon Jashari, is proving to be a prolonged dance. Milan has laid a substantial offer on the table for Jashari: €33.5 million, supplemented by an additional €4.5 million in bonuses (two of which are reportedly quite achievable).
Bruges, however, appears to be operating on a different wavelength, holding firm despite Jashari`s explicit desire to don the Rossoneri colors. The midfielder has even been included in Bruges` squad for their upcoming Champions League qualifier against Salzburg, an interesting tactical move considering he hasn`t yet registered any official minutes this season.
Jashari`s resolve, we are told, is as unyielding as the Belgian club`s stance. In an anticipated meeting with club officials in the coming days, he intends to reiterate his unwavering wish to move to Milan. His position is reportedly bolstered by a previous understanding: a promise made months ago that he would be granted a transfer if an offer exceeding €30 million from a club of his preference arrived. Milan`s bid comfortably surpasses that threshold, leaving Jashari, and indeed many onlookers, expecting Bruges to honor their word. A player of Jashari`s caliber, sitting out while his future hangs in the balance, is hardly an ideal scenario for any club, let alone one eyeing Champions League qualifiers. The clock, as they say, is ticking.
As the transfer window progresses, Milan`s dual pursuit highlights the multifaceted nature of football transfers. On one hand, a swift, opportunistic move for a promising talent in Athekame; on the other, a protracted battle of wills for a highly sought-after midfielder in Jashari. Both scenarios underscore Milan`s ambition to bolster their squad, navigating the intricate web of club negotiations and player aspirations. The Rossoneri faithful, of course, will be watching closely, hoping these strategic maneuvers translate into tangible strengths on the pitch.
