AC Milan seem to have won the battle to sign Matija Popovic on a free transfer and the date for his probable arrival has been circled on the calendar, a report claims.
Calciomercato.com recall how Popovic was born in Altötting, Germany, but has chosen to play for the Serbian national team, where at the most recent U17 European Championships he bewitched the Milan scouts.
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They saw the ball always glued to his foot, his changes of direction and excellent finishing ability. Popovic is a player who can do many things and do them well, while he can play as a playmaker, winger or even as a centre-forward.
Milan made their move well in advance to sign the 17-year-old, who was at odds with Partizan Belgrade because he rejected their contract renewal offer. With the Belgrade club Popovic scored 20 goals in 24 appearances in the U17s before being left out of the squad.
Geoffrey Moncada and Antonio D’Ottavio’s strategy had already led to a principle of agreement in November, then came a phase of reflection due to the boy’s non-EU status. In the last few days the decisive acceleration has arrived to beat the competition from Manchester City.
There is an agreement over a five-year contract with a significant salary (compared to what he receives now). Now the Rossoneri will have to wait until January 8 when Popovic will turn 18 and then within 1/2 days he will be expected in Milan to sign the contract.
If you want to learn more about Popovic, we wrote a piece which included some information on his background as well as a video of his highlights.
Wow, we really needed a second striker. And he took the last non EU spot. Good call.
Yes, maybe because he is a super talent? Bigger talent than Vlahovic at his age.
Wasn’t that other Serbian kid they bought for 3 millions also bigger talent than Vlahovic? You know, the one that was also compared to Zlatan?
From what i saw this kid kind of resembles Kaka with his playing style. Who knows, if City wanted him there must be something good about him.
if he born in Germany (dual citizenship) why he need non-EU spot?
They will probably offload/loan out Pellegrino to make room. Or maybe Guirassy isn’t even a priority and they work on someone else. Maybe this is all just smoke & mirrors….