AC Milan finds itself in a tense race to secure a vital replacement for Theo Hernandez, who recently sealed his move to Saudi Arabian giants Al-Hilal. The Rossoneri’s transfer strategy, often criticized for its sluggish pace, is now under intense scrutiny as they push to finalize a deal for Archie Brown, the versatile 23-year-old left-back currently plying his trade at Belgian side KAA Gent.
Following Hernandez’s departure, Milan has been eager to fill the void left at left-back, a position crucial to their tactical setup. According to multiple sources, including transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Milan is deep into advanced negotiations with KAA Gent for Brown’s signature. The club-to-club talks are progressing well, and discussions regarding personal terms with the player’s representatives have already begun.
Archie Brown, standing at an imposing 6 feet 2 inches, is no ordinary left-back. A product of Derby County’s academy, Brown’s career has seen a steady rise. After two years with Swiss outfit Lausanne-Sport, he moved to Gent in 2023 for a reported fee of €4 million. Since then, he has been a consistent figure for the Belgian club, amassing 87 appearances, netting three goals, and providing ten assists. His versatility extends beyond the left-back position; Brown is also capable of slotting in at centre-back or even midfield, making him a valuable asset for any squad. His aerial prowess and set-piece contributions add another layer to his game, traits Milan will undoubtedly find appealing.
However, Milan’s pursuit of Brown is not without competition. The Turkish side Fenerbahce has reportedly had an €8 million offer accepted by KAA Gent, with Brown himself agreeing to a four-year contract. This development has raised the stakes significantly, forcing Milan and their director of sport, Igli Tare, to act swiftly. Belgian transfer pundit Sacha Tavolieri highlighted the urgency, warning that Milan’s historically slow transfer operations could cost them dearly once again.
Adding to the drama, Wolverhampton Wanderers from the English Premier League are also in the running to sign Brown, further complicating Milan’s task. The Rossoneri’s window to secure the player is narrowing, and the club is reportedly racing against time to submit a firm proposal before the deal slips away.
Journalist Matteo Moretto of ESPN reported that in the last few hours, Milan has intensified contact with KAA Gent, nearing an agreement. Work is ongoing to finalize the details of Brown’s contract, with the club eager to avoid interference from rival suitors. This urgency is understandable given the high-profile nature of the transfer and the necessity to replace Hernandez promptly after his move was officially confirmed on July 10, 2025.
The pressure on Milan to act quickly is palpable. Historically, the club has been criticized for delays in the transfer market, a situation that has frustrated fans and pundits alike. The appointment of Igli Tare as director of sport was expected to inject efficiency, but these recent developments suggest that Milan must accelerate their decision-making process to avoid missing out on key targets.
Javi Guerra, a Valencia midfielder who was considered a Plan B option for Milan, recently slipped through their fingers, opting instead for a move to Manchester United. This missed opportunity serves as a cautionary tale for Milan as they pursue Brown. The club’s hesitancy in finalizing deals has been a recurring theme, and the current race for Brown underscores the need for prompt action.
Brown’s potential arrival could be a significant boost for Milan. Beyond his defensive capabilities, his ability to contribute offensively and adapt to various roles on the pitch aligns with the modern demands of top-level football. Representing England at the Under-20 level twice, Brown has demonstrated promise on the international stage, adding to his appeal as a long-term asset.
As the transfer saga unfolds, all eyes remain on Milan’s next moves. The club is aware that securing Brown would not only fill the critical left-back position but also send a message that they are serious about competing at the highest levels. With rival clubs circling and time running out, Milan’s transfer window is shaping up to be a defining chapter in their summer campaign.
In the coming days, the football world will watch closely as Milan attempts to finalize this crucial signing. The outcome will reveal much about the club’s ability to adapt and respond in a fiercely competitive transfer market, where hesitation can mean losing out on prized talents. For now, the situation remains fluid, with Milan pushing hard to turn their interest in Archie Brown into a completed deal.
