AC Milan have firmly rekindled their interest in Lazar Samardzic who they believe could replace Brahim Diaz, according to a report.
This morning’s edition of Tuttosport (via PianetaMilan) confirms that Samardzic has once again become a target for Milan ahead of the summer transfer window opening as they look to address the playmaker role.
Paolo Maldini and Ricky Massara tried for Samardzic before opting to sign Charles De Ketelaere, but now they are gone and his name has re-emerged as a candidate to help the shift from a pure 4-2-3-1 under Stefano Pioli to more of a 4-3-3.
The 21-year-old has been at Udinese for two seasons, collecting 37 appearances in the 2022-23 Serie A campaign with 5 goals and 4 assists to his name. Napoli saw an offer of €15m rejected but remain interested, as do Lazio.
However, Milan have been after him for some time and they tried to sign him when he was with Hertha BSC. He was ‘one step away’ then as his family even came to the city, spoke to Maldini and evaluated his options.
However, he eventually opted for a move closer to home, joining RB Leipzig. This summer could be the right time for the paths to finally meet.