CM: Milan gain advantage over Serie A rival for David – the details
The most anticipated transfer of the summer for AC Milan will be a striker, and a decision has not been made about who will be the new No.9. However, a report has suggested that they will face less competition for one of their targets.
Similarly to the process regarding the manager, Milan have been linked with several options to replace Giroud, but nothing has been decided. With Fonseca’s arrival imminent, though, it could change things up.
A target who has remained near the top of the list is Jonathan David, and he has been a name linked with the Rossoneri for several years. Given he already has a relationship with the Portuguese coach, it could strengthen his position in the rankings.
However, there is a lot of interest in him, given his contractual situation, but the Diavolo’s chances may have increased due to AS Roma’s failure to qualify for the Champions League.
As Calciomercato.com (via MilanNews24) reports, without qualification into Europe’s most prestigious competition, the Giallorossi will have significantly fewer funds, so they may not be able to offer the required fee for the Canadian forward.
Therefore, it means that Milan may have gained an advantage in the race for the striker, especially with Fonseca at the helm, but it remains to be seen if the Rossoneri will actively pursue him during the mercato or whether they will look for other opportunities.
Hot: Four big signings Paulo Fonseca could lure to AC Milan
With Paulo Fonseca’s arrival at Milanello close, AC Milan are matching his visions with their evaluations of the current squad to give him the tools to excel in the role.
Plans for the summer mercato have been made in advance of Fonseca’s arrival, but they may be altered slightly to match his visions. This season has shown how quickly cracks can emerge within a team and how costly that can be, we’re looking at the defensive crisis in particular.
However, the foundations are strong, and whilst investment is needed, as Pioli has said, there is a good base to build from. Now, the base must be further strengthened with investment this summer, alongside growing the current players.
As Tuttosport (via Milan News) reports, four targets are required. However, three priorities are in place for starting roles.
The top of the list is a striker. Giroud’s departure only strengthened the desire to invest heavily in his heir, and this is where most of the investment will be allocated. It will not stop there, though, as Fonseca also wants another central defender, which the report suggests could be left-sided, to play alongside Fikayo Tomori.
Additionally, another right-back is requested, and they will ideally compete with Davide Calabria for the starting role. Finally, a defensive-minded midfielder is also desired, given the depth issue in this position.
Several names are being considered for each role. Benjamin Sesko, Jonathan David, Joshua Zirkzee and Serhou Guirassy all feature in the idea for a new No.9. Buongiorno, Tiago Santos, Youssouf Fofana, and Sofyan Amrabat are targets for the other roles.
