MN: Milan searching for the perfect 10 – all the names on Maldini’s list including easiest target

As has been well documented, AC Milan are searching for a new attacking midfielder to take the starting spot in Stefano Pioli’s system.

After concluding the negotiations for the return of Brahim Diaz, Milan are still looking for a playmaker. MilanNews reports that the diktat is fairly simple: Milan want a player who knows how to move between the lines of the midfield and the opposing defence and is able to contribute both in possession and out.

The No.10 spot is a fundamental role and that is the main reason why Milan do not intend to put all the weight of the role on the 21-year-old Brahim Diaz, but rather they will make another signing in that position.

The report adds that there are many players who interest Paolo Maldini, who – along with his collaborators – is testing the ground well for each of them in order to figure out how much it would really take for a deal to happen.

Among the eligible candidates are Hakim Ziyech of Chelsea, Philippe Coutinho of Barcelona, Josip Ilicic of Atalanta, Nikola Vlasic of CSKA Moscow, Isco of Real Madrid and Marcel Sabitzer of RB Leipzig.

The most feasible from all points of view is Atalanta’s Ilicic when factoring in transfer fee, salary, the fact La Dea would sell and he would be open to leaving. He knows Serie A well, but there is the problem of age as he is 33.

For the other names, the club are looking for advantageous situations as they would need the likes of Ziyech, Coutinho and Isco to reduce the salaries they receive.

Meanwhile, both Mattia Zaccagni of Verona and Matteo Pessina of Atalanta seem to have fallen off the Rossoneri radars. Exactly one month from the start of the 2021-22 Serie A season, Milan are looking for a playmaker. While there is no rush currently, the sooner that man arrives the better.

READ MORE: Milan searching for the perfect 10 – Understanding the role and its requirements