AC Milan are hopeful of winning the race to sign Matija Popovic on a free transfer but they face strong competition from a number of European clubs, according to a report.
Calciomercato.com reports that Milan are serious about Popovic and they do not want to let him slip away, also because his contractual conditions make him a real opportunity to sign a very talented player for a very small fee.
Partizan Belgrade have begun leaving the attacking midfielder out of their U19 team and the reason is not because of his behaviour but because of the fact that his deal is expiring on 31 December 2023, which effectively makes him more of an ex-player than a potential to use for the future.
In just two months, that deal will come to its natural expiry and Popovic will in all respects be a free agent and therefore free to sign for another club. It will be a ‘free transfer’ but the cost of the commissions must be considered (which, being a very young player, will not be high) as well as a development fee to Partizan.
Geoffrey Moncada and Antonio D’Ottavio have scouted the teenager and the reports have been very positive. The underlying problem remains, paradoxically, his contract status which has resulted in Borussia Dortmund, Bayern Munich, Barcelona and Real Madrid adding competition.
The most appealing project – in terms of playing time and guarantees over tole – will probably win and Milan doesn’t want to miss this opportunity.
Yea OK, so let’s say we sign him and he starts with the Primavera. Then what? Will he ever get to make a leap to the Senior side under Pioli?