Tuttosport: Milan enquire over €30m Liverpool and Arsenal target as Bakayoko back-up plan

By Oliver Fisher -

AC Milan are pushing to close a deal for Tiemoue Bakayoko, a report claims, but they do have a back-up plan in case it falls through.

According to Thursday’s edition of Tuttosport (via MilanLive), Milan have Bakayoko as a priority, but they must also consider alternatives too.

The paper claims that the Rossoneri management made an enquiry over Lille midfielder Boubakary Soumare, who is valued at €30million+. This is a significant amount that Milan cannot spend right now, especially considering the fact the Ligue 1 club are highly unlikely to let Soumare leave on a loan with option deal.

However, the fact that the 21-year-old’s contract is set to expire in June 2022 and also that he would likely earn a lower wage than Bakayoko should be factored in.

It must also be mentioned that relations between Milan and Lille are excellent, as we saw during the transfers that involved Rafael Leao and Tiago Djalo a year ago.

It should not be ruled out that later the two clubs may speak more concretely of Soumaré, if Bakayoko does not arrive at Milanello and Maldini has the right economic terms.

Le10Sport reported on Monday that Milan have made Soumare their next target, but Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester United and Newcastle United were also credited with interest, as were Real Madrid.

Tags AC Milan Boubakary Soumare
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