Alvaro Morata is now the primary target to reinforce AC Milan’s attack ahead of the 2024-25 season. According to a report, the Spaniard has said yes to the move and will soon officially communicate his decision to Atletico Madrid.
As reported by Gazzetta dello Sport this morning (see photo below), Zlatan Ibrahimovic managed to convince Morata to join the club over the phone. Along with his wife Alice, who is Italian, he’s now ready to make a return to the country.
The striker had toyed with the idea last summer, moving to Milano that is, as Inter expressed an interest in his services. Now, the move will materialise as the 31-year-old promised Ibrahimovic, ready to communicate his decision to Atletico Madrid.
Ibrahimovic shows his value
Of course, Ibrahimovic’s presence is important to get this transfer over the line, similar to when Paolo Maldini was negotiating with players. Giorgio Furlani may be important for keeping the finances in order and registering a second consecutive profit, but he’s nothing compared to the Swede in convincing players.
Morata, who will captain Spain in the Euros final, expressed his loyalty to Atletico Madrid just eight days ago and then, Ibrahimovic called and evidently did his job. Paulo Fonseca also spoke to the Spaniard to ensure that he will be the main man up front, which certainly helped.
Some details still need to be defined for the contract, with Milan putting a three-year deal worth €4m plus bonuses per year. Morata, meanwhile, wants it to be a four-year deal with figures of around €5m and a compromise is expected to be found.
Decisive days ahead
The aforementioned difference between the offer and demand will not be a problem, as both parties are set on making the move happen. Morata knows that Milan have set a cap of €6.5m per year and will respect that, knowing that a very good salary will still be offered by the club.
The striker wants to define his future before going on holiday and as such, his decision should arrive already on Monday. Then, Milan can initiate contracts with Atletico Madrid and trigger the €13m release clause, which is active the entire summer (and not just a short period).
By Monday, therefore, Morata could be the new No.9 of Milan and it will certainly be good for the Rossoneri to get the deal sorted. Then, they can focus on other positions such as defensive midfield, with Youssouf Fofana the main target for that role.
