As AC Milan prepares for its pre-season tour in Singapore, the club`s transfer market operations are truly taking flight. Far from being a quiet summer, the Rossoneri are engaging in a high-stakes strategic dance, aiming to fortify key positions and build a squad ready to challenge at the pinnacle of European football.
AC Milan`s management actively pursuing new signings for the upcoming season.
The Ecuadorian Express: Estupinan Nears Completion
On the left defensive flank, AC Milan appears to be closing in on a significant acquisition: Pervis Estupinan from Brighton. The Ecuadorian full-back is seen as a potential successor or strong complementary piece to Theo Hernandez. Milan has reportedly secured a five-year agreement with Estupinan, offering a net salary of €2.5 million per season.
However, the real negotiation lies with Brighton. The English club is holding out for €23 million, a figure higher than what Estupinan`s agent, Jorge Mendes – a name synonymous with complex deals – had previously hinted at in spring. Milan`s initial bid of €12 million plus bonuses was politely declined, with the club now hoping to seal the deal around €15 million, stretching to a maximum of €20 million. Mendes is currently playing the crucial role of intermediary, aiming to bridge this financial gap. Following recent intricate transfer sagas, Milan is treading with noticeable caution, a prudent approach after previous negotiations have, shall we say, taken unexpected detours. The good news? Estupinan`s Spanish passport simplifies the bureaucratic process for his registration, hopefully allowing him to join the squad for medicals early next week and then link up with his new teammates in Singapore.
Right-Back Riddles: The Pubill Predicament
Shifting focus to the right side of defense, Milan has been diligent in assessing options. Marc Pubill, the Almeria right-back, recently underwent medical tests in Barcelona, scrutinizing the condition of his left knee, which had surgery in late 2023. The results were encouraging, offering a glimmer of hope. Yet, in the nuanced world of transfer negotiations, a clean bill of health doesn`t automatically equate to a signed contract. Milan`s management, Furlani and Tare, are deliberating, keenly aware that Pubill`s price tag hovers around €15 million and that Wolverhampton also harbors an interest. The Rossoneri are also weighing other alternatives, including Doué from Strasbourg, though his valuation of €25 million plus bonuses makes him a significantly costlier proposition. Milan`s cautious stance here underscores their commitment to making the right choice for what they consider a “fundamental” position.
“In the intricate ballet of football transfers, a clean bill of health doesn`t always translate into a signed contract. Sometimes, it merely opens the door to more thoughtful consideration.”
The Striker Saga: Vlahovic`s Juventus Dilemma and Milan`s Patience
While defensive reinforcements are paramount, the future of Milan`s attack remains a central, albeit currently less urgent, concern. The club`s clear preference for a new “bomber” points directly to Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus. However, pushing this deal forward isn`t straightforward. Milan is essentially playing a waiting game, observing until Juventus secures a replacement striker, with names like David circulating.
Should the stars align and Juventus find their man, Milan is prepared to lay out a substantial contract for the Serbian forward. This, however, comes with a caveat: it will be significantly less than the staggering €12 million net (or over €22 million gross) he is set to earn if he remains in Turin for the 2025-26 season. Milan`s proposed offer would likely start around €6 million net, supplemented by performance-based bonuses tied to goals and a potential Scudetto victory. Furthermore, his salary would see incremental increases in future seasons, particularly if the club secures a top-four (or top-five, depending on UEFA rankings) finish and Champions League qualification. It`s an interesting proposition: a perceived pay cut now for potential collective success and future individual earning potential.
The core issue remains Juventus`s stance. With Vlahovic carrying an amortization value of approximately €19.5 million on their balance sheet, the Bianconeri are keen to offload him. Attempts to renew his contract have stalled, and even the suggestion of a one-year extension to facilitate a loan with a low mandatory purchase option has not resonated with Vlahovic`s entourage. Milan, for its part, continues to monitor the situation with keen interest, ready to act when the conditions are just right. Meanwhile, other options are being assessed, with Rasmus Hojlund from Manchester United being considered for a loan, though he is noted as not fitting the mold of a “pure No. 9” striker. The saga of Milan`s next attacking focal point is certainly far from over, promising more twists and turns.
