AC Milan know that they must make some adjustments to the midfield department ahead of next season and they have a clear strategy in mind, a report claims.
Calciomercato.com reports that the management are not thinking of a massive overhaul at the moment, and everything will be built around Sandro Tonali whose growth has been exponential this season. He should actually sign a renewal with Milan having reduced his salary from €1.6m to €1.2m net over the summer to stay with the Rossoneri, and in the coming weeks there will be negotiations about extending his deal until 2027 with a pay rise.
Then, Ismael Bennacer should also sign an extension. His contract is currently set to expire in 2024 but the Algerian will get a raise up to €2.5-3m per season (currently receiving €1.5m) and will extend until 2026.
Tonali and Bennacer are lock-ins, while Tommaso Pobega should also be part of the midfield moving forward as he will return to the Rossoneri after his loan at Ivan Juric’s Torino. The department will then be completed by a big name, and Paolo Maldini’s idea is to focus on Renato Sanches of Lille, with talks underway with his agent Jorge Mendes.
The former Bayern Munich and Benfica player is expected to take the spot of Franck Kessie, who will not renew his contract unless there are surprises. Regarding Tiémoué Bakayoko, he arrived on loan for two seasons from Chelsea, but he could ask to leave if he realises that he is the last choice in the pecking order.
Meanwhile, Yacine Adli is considered an attacking midfielder, so in the 4-2-3-1 drawn by Pioli he will act behind the striker. That means he will battle for a spot with Brahim Diaz.
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