UEFA Champions League
The arrival of Nicolò Zaniolo is already part of AC Milan's immediate plans, as they seek a midfielder in the upcoming summer transfer market capable of filling the void left by Luka Modric when he decides to retire. The young Italian, currently on loan at Udinese from Galatasaray, has become the top choice for the rossonero sports management.
Why is Milan interested in Nicolò Zaniolo?
Zaniolo has shown remarkable adaptability since his return to Serie A. At Udinese, he has regained confidence, playing time, and prominence after an inconsistent period in Turkey. The Milan board believes that his profile perfectly fits what they are looking for to revamp the midfield: talent, youth, and versatility.
At 26 years old, standing at 1.90 m tall with outstanding physical power, the former Roma player brings the ideal mix of strength and technique. In Milan, they see him as Modric's natural successor, a player capable of leading the generational transition without disrupting the team's balance.
The Lombard club plans to make a bid between 10 and 12 million euros for the Italian. In Turkey, Galatasaray seems willing to entertain offers since the player is not in their coaching staff's plans for the next season.
Zaniolo's contract situation and Udinese's role
Zaniolo is owned by Galatasaray until 2027, but his loan to Udinese includes a purchase option that the Friulian club could activate at the end of the season. If Milan acts quickly, they could negotiate directly with the Turks and preempt any purchase attempts by Udinese.
The player, on his part, has made it clear he wishes to stay in Italy. In various statements, he has expressed his desire to relaunch his career in Serie A, a sign that works in Milan's favor in the negotiations. Furthermore, his good relationship with some members of the rossonero squad would ease his immediate adaptation.
Operation keys and AC Milan's challenges
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Tactical adaptation: the challenge will be to determine if Zaniolo fits best as an attacking midfielder, an advanced central midfielder, or even as an attacking midfielder.
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Reasonable cost: the price between 10 and 12 million represents a manageable investment for Milan, with long-term appreciation potential.
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Galatasaray's availability: the Turks could agree to the sale if they receive a formal and specific offer before the summer commences.
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Integration into the system: Stefano Pioli is seeking a player with energy and goal-scoring ability, qualities that Zaniolo abundantly possesses.
What would Milan gain with Zaniolo?
Signing Nicolò Zaniolo would bring depth, physicality, and versatility to the squad. His Serie A experience and ability to play multiple roles in midfield make him a highly valuable asset. Additionally, his age allows him to be part of the club's immediate future without the pressure of being an instant star.
With Modric nearing the end of his career, Milan understands the need to plan the succession without haste. Bringing in Zaniolo would be a commitment to balancing the present and future, ensuring continuity and youth in a crucial area of the pitch.
A sensible move for Milan
AC Milan's interest in Nicolò Zaniolo makes sense from every angle. He is a player with quality, potential, and a reasonable cost. Furthermore, his desire to stay in Italy and Galatasaray's willingness to sell facilitate a strategic move.
If all pieces fall into place, the Italian midfielder could don the rossonero shirt this summer and become Modric's natural heir. At San Siro, they are already watching him closely, aware that the midfield future could have a name and surname: Nicolò Zaniolo.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El Milán encuentra relevo para Modric por 12 millones de euros

