AC Milan are very close to formalising the signing of Daichi Kamada on a free transfer but that does not rule out the permanent signing of Brahim Diaz, a report claims.
According to Calciomercato.com, some took the news that Kamada is on the verge of signing for Milan on a multi-year deal as confirmation that Brahim will not be staying, perhaps because the fee is too high or because Real Madrid intend to bring him back to replace the departing Marco Asensio.
The latter still remains a probable scenario at this stage, but it is not automatic despite the arrival of the Japan international on a free transfer when his deal with Eintracht Frankfurt runs out.
The reason for that is not just economic given that Kamada will arrive without a transfer fee having to be paid out, but also positional in terms of constructing the attack for 2023-24 onwards.
Brahim has also shown that he can play both in the centre and on the right of the attacking trident, offering his best performances on the wing where one of either Junior Messias or Alexis Saelemaekers could leave.
Given the Belgian or the Brazilian could depart, Paolo Maldini and Ricky Massara are not closing the door the possibility of using Diaz as a winger in the event of an agreement being reached with Real Madrid.
Of couse that would then be a boost for Charles De Ketelaere who would in theory remain as the deputy No.10, with the situation perhaps to be reviewed when Ismael Bennacer comes back from injury midway through the season.
De Ketelaere could even be sold if a club offers a sum similar to the €35m Milan invested, but the former Club Brugge man has seen his value drop significantly so Milan will have to try to relaunch him in some way.
As for Diaz, Milan have an option to buy set at €22m but Real Madrid have a buy-back set at a few million higher. A lot will depend on the plan of Los Blancos and the will of the player. What is certain is that Kamada’s arrival does not push anyone out.
