Victor Boniface in action, a prime target for AC Milan`s attack.
As the new football season looms, AC Milan finds itself in a familiar yet increasingly urgent predicament: the quest for a definitive number nine. With just days left before kick-off, the Rossoneri management, led by the astute Igli Tare, is working tirelessly to secure the ideal candidate to spearhead their attack. The focus has narrowed considerably, with Nigerian international Victor Boniface of Bayer Leverkusen emerging as the undisputed frontrunner.
Boniface: The Leading Contender for Milan`s Attack
The pursuit of Victor Boniface has reportedly seen significant advancements. Milan is deep in negotiations with Bayer Leverkusen, and a deal structured as a loan with an option to buy appears to be close at hand. Early indications suggest a loan fee of approximately €5 million, with a subsequent buy option of around €28 million. Such a formula offers Milan a degree of financial prudence, allowing them to assess Boniface`s impact within Serie A before committing to a substantial permanent transfer fee. Crucially, the player himself is reportedly keen on the move, a factor that often accelerates complex negotiations in the bustling transfer market. The club`s ambition is clear: to have their new striker in place by the end of the week, signaling a decisive push to finalize this critical acquisition, pending final approval from CEO Giorgio Furlani.
Rafael Leao, Milan`s star forward, engaging with fans, perhaps hinting at future teammates.
Højlund`s Prospects Fade: A Matter of Transfer Philosophy
While Boniface takes center stage, the previously prominent pursuit of Rasmus Højlund has hit a significant snag. Negotiations with Manchester United and the Danish striker have proven to be anything but straightforward. Højlund, it seems, is resolute in his desire for a permanent move away from Old Trafford, perceiving his tenure there as concluded. Manchester United, naturally, seeks to recoup a substantial portion of their initial investment. Milan, however, has been advocating for a loan deal, initially with an option to buy, and later, a conditional obligation. This fundamental disparity in transfer philosophy has led to a stalemate, making Højlund`s arrival at San Siro increasingly unlikely. It`s a classic transfer window dance, where the financial instruments often dictate the tune more than the player`s immediate talent.
Conrad Harder: The Youthful Alternative
In the backdrop of these high-stakes negotiations, Milan has also explored the potential acquisition of Conrad Harder, a promising 20-year-old talent from Sporting Lisbon. Reports indicate that Milan has indeed made a concrete proposal for a permanent transfer, valuing the young Dane at approximately €25 million. This represents a distinctly different strategic choice for the club. Harder, with considerably less experience than Boniface, would be viewed as a more “futurible” investment – a player for the long-term, requiring development, albeit with a lower wage expectation. The stark reality is that Milan is unlikely to pursue both Boniface and Harder simultaneously, necessitating a clear decision on their immediate and future striking needs.
The Milan management team, facing crucial decisions for the squad`s final shape.
The Clock Ticks: A Decisive Week for Milan
The urgency surrounding Milan`s striker search is palpable. With the league season on the horizon, the club cannot afford to enter the campaign without a robust option upfront. The flurry of activity surrounding Boniface suggests a preference for a more immediate impact player, one who can hit the ground running. The contrasting approaches to Højlund and Harder highlight the complex balancing act that modern football clubs must perform – weighing proven ability against future potential, and immediate cost against long-term value. One thing remains certain: AC Milan is poised to make a significant decision on their attacking reinforcements very soon. The football world watches with bated breath to see who will ultimately wear the coveted Rossoneri number nine jersey.
