According to reports in the Italian press, AC Milan chief Ivan Gazidis wants Roma star Nicolo Zaniolo to help start a youth revolution at the club.
The Rossoneri continue to be linked with a number of high-profile targets to help bolster the squad this summer ahead of what will hopefully be a return to Europe’s elite club competition next season in the Champions League.
A number of wingers have been mentioned as potential recruits, including the linked of Everton, Memphis Depay and Federico Chiesa, but now a new name has emerged.
Friday’s edition of il Corriere dello Sport (via Twitter) claims that Gazidis wants to replicate the model he helped instil at previous club Arsenal by focusing on talented young players.
The report states that he has an eye on Roma star Zaniolo as somebody who could do exactly that.
The player’s father Igor gave an interview to Tuttosport on Friday which will give Milan hope, insisting he and his son are open to offers.
“Despite the renewal in the summer there will be many enquiries from various teams,” he said.
“Even without the qualification in the Champions League it is not said that he leaves Roma, I think the club wants to bet on him and the sacrificed one may not be him. Otherwise we will evaluate the proposals.”
Zaniolo has been a revelation for the capital side since his arrival from Inter last summer, scoring four goals and adding two assists in 21 Serie A appearances. He has also netted twice in the Champions League this term.
The other player that the report mentions is midfielder Sandro Tonali, currently playing for Brescia and a player who has been repeatedly linked with a move to San Siro.
We reported yesterday that Leonardo has opened discussions with Tonali’s entourage about joining Milan, a move that the player would be keen on but could cost as much as €30m.
