AC Milan sporting director Ricky Massara has quashed the rumours that Davide Calabria is on the market, and confirmed signings will arrive.
There is an abundance of different speculation surrounding the club at the moment including the idea that Serge Aurier could arrive from Spurs to replace Calabria and that two signings are being lined up in midfield.
Nonetheless, with the team ready to return to training at Milanello today there is not a single senior signing through the door yet.
Massara spoke alongside technical director Paolo Maldini and CEO Ivan Gazidis at Milanello on Tuesday in the first media appearance of the new season, with the questions and answers transcribed by MilanNews.
What do you expect from Leao?
“The growth of all the players is important for Milan. We are one of the youngest teams in Serie A. Leao is a very talented player,” he said.
“He matured after an initial period of adaptation. We are satisfied with what he has done, but we expect growth from a player with his class, but we are sure he will grow further.”
Will there be movements in midfield?
“Kessie and Bennacer have given us a lot, they have grown exponentially both individually and as a couple. This is also thanks to Pioli’s work. In midfield we have to intervene, the season will be long so we need new reinforcements. We will have to do something, we are already evaluating hypotheses.”
What will be the future of Pobega, Brescianini, Daniel Maldini and Colombo?
“The youth sector of Milan is producing many players. We will have to find the right path for each of them. They have been here for many years, they grew up in the club and therefore embody the values of Milan.
“Pobega did very well at Pordenone, we want to see how much he can give. Brescianini will probably go on loan to Serie B, while Maldini and Colombo will stay with us.”
Is Davide Calabria sellable?
“He is a product in our youth sector. Often the value of these players is downplayed. In recent years he has done well and we do not consider him on the market.”
Is Serge Aurier a target?
“There are many names that are linked to us. Aurier is an excellent player, but at the moment there are no conditions to think about him. He is not a goal.”
Are you negotiating Rebic’s purchase?
“We are evaluating the possibility of signing him immediately outright. We hope the conditions are right to do so. We are very happy with his performance. In the second round he was extraordinary. We hope to be able to take him outright.”
So, they are trying to convince us that Calabria is sufficient and there is no need to get a new right back, right?…