AC Milan have four defenders on their wish list as they look to finally address the depth issue at centre-back having failed to do so in the summer.
According to TMW, the first name on the Milan list remains that of Mohamed Simakan, but there are three alternatives: Ozan Kabak of Schalke, Fikayo Tomori of Chelsea and Loic Badé of Lens. They take a look at each one…
Simakan: With good physical attributes, Simakan is the player that Milan immediately put at the top of their list, but last Saturday’s injury – one that will keep him off the field for at least two months – has slowed down operations.
Milan would take the opportunity to ask for a discount compared to the almost €20million that Strasbourg wants, and the management deem him a good profile for the future but also for the present, given he has almost 50 appearances despite being just 20. He is particularly skilled in one-on-one defender and in his heading/aerial ability.
Kabak: The Turkey international is considered one of the best defensive prospects in European football. He was wanted by Inter at the time when he was set to leave Galatasaray, but he joined Stuttgart.
Then, a few months later, he ended up at Schalke. Tough, good in one-on-one situations and with excellent physicality, Kabak stands out in aerial duels and in being often found in the right place even in box.
Bade: Physicality is key attribute for Bade too, given his height of 1.90m tall. As a kid he played as a midfielder, but he moved to Paris FC and Le Havre who made him play in the heart of defence.
It is precisely as a central defender that Badé is showing his capabilities with the RC Lens shirt. Strong in headers, also thanks to his size, his past as a midfielder is why he has tidy feet and is able to start moves with quality. He is not lacking in personality, even if he can improve in concentration.
Tomori: If Milan were to focus on Tomori, then they would be recruiting a player who is already more ready than the other three. He is three years older than his colleagues on the list, has great physical strength and physicality and is likened to team-mate Zouma for his quality and style of play.
Since his days in the Chelsea academy he has been considered a pupil of Lampard, so much so that the current Blues coach had wanted him at Derby County in 2018-19 where he was on loan. At the moment, though, he is out of favour.
READ MORE: Milan looking for a striker and Mandzukic is the first name
