AC Milan is gearing up for the January transfer window, with eyes set on strengthening their wing positions as they face disappointing contributions from current players. Reports suggest the Rossoneri are particularly interested in pursuing Maghnes Akliouche, a talented winger currently playing for AS Monaco.
Akliouche, born in 2002 and known for his left foot, has been making waves with his performance, having scored four goals and provided five assists across 21 appearances this season. His impressive output positioning him as a prime candidate for the Milanese club as they seek to bolster their attacking options.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Akliouche’s contractual ties with Monaco extend until 2028, and the club values him at approximately 30 million euros. This reflects Monaco’s tendency to hold their ground during negotiations, as seen with previous dealings such as the drawn-out transfer of Youssouf Fofana to Milan. Consequently, any possible acquisition of Akliouche hinges on the exits of current players.
Milan's current situation presents challenges, especially with Samuel Chukwueze and Noah Okafor failing to deliver consistent performances. Their lack of impact has led the club to explore potential sales, which could clear the way for new acquisitions. Chukwueze and Okafor are reportedly at the forefront of potential exits, with Okafor drawing interest from clubs within Germany and England.
Potential replacements are not just limited to Akliouche; Jamie Leweling, who plays for Stuttgart, is also under consideration. Leweling, who has been performing admirably since being reclaimed by Stuttgart after his loan from Union Berlin, adds to the list of potential targets. His style of play, characterized by speed and dribbling skills, aligns with the type of player Milan is scouting.
Assessing the financial aspect, Leweling recently signed a contract extension lasting until 2029, making his market value hover around 20 to 25 million euros. This significant cost requirement underlines the strategic financial planning needed by Milan's management, as they assess their budget and player trades. Any moves or negotiations for either Akliouche or Leweling will require the club to offload current squad members to redistribute funds effectively.
Meanwhile, head coach Paulo Fonseca has been contending with the inability of his wingers to make meaningful contributions. With Pulisic potentially centralizing his role, Milan's need for dynamic wing play has become acute. The upcoming transfer window signifies both opportunity and necessity for Milan to recalibrate their squad as they strive for improved performance.
While the focus on Akliouche appears most prominent, Milan's tactical reshuffle also considers their midfield depth. Notably, the return of Ismael Bennacer has influenced the decisions on acquiring additional midfielders. If Bennacer regains his form, Milan might transition their focus back to solidifying their attacking flank rather than urgently seeking central reinforcements.
With the Supercoppa match against Juventus approaching, PDritak Milan will likely explore discussions around player trades. There are whispers of concurrent negotiations surrounding defender Fikayo Tomori between the two clubs, which could ease or complicate the Rossoneri's transfer ambitions.
This January, it's clear: AC Milan is on the hunt for fresh talents to invigorate their wing positions. If they successfully negotiate exits for Chukwueze and Okafor, they may very well secure the services of promising talents like Akliouche to rejuvenate their squad for the rest of the season.
With their aspirations to climb the Serie A standings and progress through European competitions, every player acquisition will be pivotal – making it one of the most anticipated transfer windows for AC Milan yet.
