AC Milan’s strength last season was their defensive department and the management are at work to make sure it is as strong as possible heading into 2022-23.
MilanNews start with the two certainties in Fikayo Tomori and Pierre Kalulu who had a big hand in ensuring the Rossoneri ended the Scudetto winning season by conceding just 2 goals in their last 11 games.
There is talk of a renewal for both, as Tomori currently earns €2m net per season and could soon go to €3.5m until 2026 while Kalulu should also net a pay rise from €500k to €1.5m per season, also until 2026. Then the recovering Simon Kjaer is to be added to the ranks.
In terms of the market, Alessio Romagnoli is now almost certain to leave on a free transfer while Matteo Gabbia could depart on loan somewhere with an option or obligation to buy. Mattia Caldara will return from Venezia but will most likely be sold outright for a rather low amount.
In terms of signings, the main target is Sven Botman but in the last few days the situation has become complicated as Newcastle United have made a higher bid than Milan’s €25m plus €5m in bonuses. The management are leaning heavily on Botman’s strong will to join Milan.
The idea is to have three strong centre-backs plus Kjaer to use as a ‘wild card’ and this would allow head coach Stefano Pioli to be calm heading into a season in which the goal will be to retain the Scudetto and go further in the Champions League.
5 are needed, 4 are not enough if Milan want to compete in Champions League.
#RenewMaldini