With the new Serie A season just weeks away, AC Milan finds itself in a familiar pre-season predicament: the hunt for starting fullbacks. The Rossoneri are actively seeking reinforcements on both the left and right flanks, a crucial task given the impending start of competitive football.
The Left-Back Situation: A Sudden Twist
The search for a left-back, particularly a potential successor or deputy for the dynamic Theo Hernandez, recently encountered an unexpected twist. Milan believed they had successfully negotiated the signing of Archie Brown from Gent. Reports indicated a deal was practically finalized, with the club even arranging for the player`s travel and medical tests in Milan.
However, in a move that reportedly left Milan brass less than thrilled, Brown had a last-minute change of heart. Following a reported phone call from Fenerbahçe President and influenced by manager José Mourinho, the English defender opted for the Turkish Süper Lig, swayed by a significantly more lucrative contract offer – substantially higher than the terms agreed with Milan. This last-minute U-turn wasn`t just a missed transfer; it also reportedly irked the Milan management due to the timing and circumstances. With Brown off the table, attention shifts back to other prospects. Girona`s Miguel Gutiérrez remains a name under consideration as Milan evaluates options for the “after Theo” role, while Melvin Bard of Nice, though mentioned, does not appear to be a primary target at this time.
The Right-Back Challenge: Price Tag Stand-Off
On the right flank, the situation is different but equally challenging. Stade Rennais` Guéla Doué is understood to be the club`s preferred option for the right-back spot. Milan has tabled offers, reportedly increasing their bid from €15 million to €18 million. However, Strasbourg is holding firm on their valuation, demanding around €25 million plus potential bonuses – a figure Milan currently deems too high to meet. Despite the financial disparity, Doué himself is reportedly keen on a move to San Siro, adding another layer to the negotiation.
Given the impasse with Doué, Almeria`s Marc Pubill is gaining momentum as a viable alternative for the right-back position. While perhaps possessing different attributes than Doué, Pubill is valued closer to Milan`s initial range at around €15 million, though competition exists, notably from Wolverhampton. It appears the market has developed a certain… sensitivity when AC Milan comes knocking, with asking prices often seeing a convenient uplift. Other previously linked names, such as Monaco`s Vanderson, have been deemed prohibitively expensive, quickly taking them off the table.
Ultimately, Milan`s management, including Tare and Furlani, must secure not one, but two starting-caliber fullbacks to adequately strengthen the squad for the upcoming campaign. With time ticking down until the season opener against Bari on August 17th, the pressure is on to navigate the complexities of the transfer market, find value, and avoid further setbacks.
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