Serginho compares new Milan signing Duarte with Thiago Silva

By Oliver Fisher -

Former winger Serginho has backed Flamengo defender Leo Duarte to become AC Milan’s ‘new Thiago Silva’.

Duarte arrived in Milano on Wednesday ahead of his €11million move to Milan, and he was greeted by former Rossoneri star Serginho.

His compatriot – who won two Champions League trophies with the club – was full of praise.

“He’s a player with great character, he’s only 23 years old but he’s already played many games for Flamengo,” Serginho told MilanNews.

“He still has great room for improvement. Milan believed in him, [chief scout] Geoffrey Moncada also went to watch him closely in Brazil. Milan have made a great buy.

“Let’s hope he’s the new Thiago Silva. Like every Brazilian, he’ll need a period of adaptation, but he has the characteristics to do well in Italy.

“Roma also wanted him, but Milan got in before everyone else. The Rossoneri had been following him for at least three months, Moncada followed him closely.

“He’s ready for Milan. The Coach will decide if he starts, but he has everything to do so many so many beautiful things at Milan.”

Duarte will sign a five-year contract once he has passed a medical, and he revealed his response to the move: “I’m very happy.”

Tags AC Milan Leo Duarte Serginho
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