AC Milan are already laying the groundwork for the summer transfer window as financial constraints limit their activity in January, according to reports from Calciomercato. While the Rossoneri would ideally strengthen immediately, the club’s strategy appears focused on patience, planning, and securing priority targets once the season concludes.
With Financial Fair Play considerations still shaping decision-making at San Siro, Milan’s hierarchy are determined to avoid impulsive winter spending. Instead, sporting director Geoffrey Moncada and technical director Zlatan Ibrahimović have identified three key profiles to pursue in the summer, when budgets will be more flexible and negotiations less restrictive.
1. Joshua Zirkzee – A long-term solution up front
One of the standout names on Milan’s shortlist is Joshua Zirkzee. The Dutch striker has enjoyed a breakout period in Serie A, impressing with his technical quality, physical presence, and ability to link play. Milan see him as an ideal modern forward capable of leading the line while also complementing attacking midfielders like Rafael Leão and Christian Pulisic.
The Rossoneri are expected to monitor Zirkzee closely throughout the second half of the campaign, aware that competition for his signature will be fierce. A summer move is seen as far more realistic than a January swoop, both financially and strategically, as Milan aim to secure a forward who can anchor the attack for years to come.
2. Lazar Samardžić – Creativity for midfield evolution
Midfield reinforcement remains a priority, and Lazar Samardžić has emerged as a key target. The Udinese playmaker has been on Milan’s radar for some time thanks to his vision, ball control, and ability to operate between the lines.
Milan’s current midfield has often lacked consistent creativity in tight matches, and Samardžić is viewed as a player who could bridge that gap. His age and development curve fit perfectly with Milan’s youth-driven recruitment model, and a summer deal would allow the club to negotiate from a stronger financial position while assessing how existing midfield options perform over the remainder of the season.
3. Tiago Santos – Strengthening the right flank
Defensive depth is another area under review, particularly on the right side. Tiago Santos has caught Milan’s attention with his athleticism, work rate, and attacking instincts from full-back. The Portuguese defender offers pace and intensity, qualities Milan value highly in wide defensive roles.
While January reinforcements in defence remain unlikely unless an emergency arises, Santos is considered a realistic summer addition who could provide competition and long-term cover on the flank. His profile aligns with Milan’s preference for emerging talents who can be developed internally.
January patience, summer ambition
For now, Milan are expected to keep their January business minimal, potentially limited to loans or low-cost opportunities. The focus remains on maintaining squad balance and pushing for Champions League qualification, which would significantly boost summer spending power.
By identifying targets early, Milan hope to move decisively when the window opens, avoiding prolonged negotiations and inflated prices. The strategy reflects a club confident in its project, prioritizing sustainability without sacrificing ambition.
As the season unfolds, performances, results, and potential player exits could influence final decisions—but one thing is clear: Milan’s eyes are firmly fixed on summer, and the groundwork is already being laid. 🔴⚫
Be the first to comment