After an encouraging campaign that saw them return to the Champions League for the first time in eight years, Milan are now looking to build a squad that can take them to the next level.
Stefano Pioli possesses a roster of young stars led by the immortal Zlatan Ibrahimovic, but some additions are needed if the club wishes to do well on the continental stage and make a serious run for the Scudetto at the same time.
Thus, here are five players that the Rossoneri need to sign in this summer transfer market – in our own opinion.
Goalkeeper: Salvatore Sirigu (Torino)
In Gianluigi Donnarumma, Milan arguably had the best goalkeeper in the league. Thus, losing their youth product for free was obviously a hard pill to swallow.
However, directors Paulo Maldini and Ricky Massara reacted quickly by securing a capable replacement in Mike Maignan.
But while the former Lille man adapts to his new home, the Diavolo would do well to have a reliable veteran ready to fill in if needed, and Sirigu would be the perfect candidate, and he’s already heading towards the exit doors at Torino.
Salvatore Sirigu was subbed on in the 89th minute of Italy's game with Wales.
In 1990, Roberto Mancini was taken to the World Cup but didn't play a single minute, he is making sure none of his players experience the same feeling ? pic.twitter.com/PI7Lk5huWn
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) June 21, 2021
Fullback: Diego Dalot (Manchester United)
In Davide Calabria and Theo Hernandez, Milan have a formidable and well-balanced fullback duo. But when one of them is missing, their bench doesn’t offer too many good options.
Therefore, maintaining the services of Dalot would be a very important step. The Portuguese spent last season at the San Siro on loan from Manchester United, and seems to be enjoying life in Italy.
The 22-year-old can play on either flank, and he’s expected to evolve his game with time.
? AC Milan will complete the signing of Brahim Diaz ?? on loan with option to buy in the coming days.
Milan wants Diego Dalot ?? of Manchester United, if that doesn't happens, they will look on to Álvaro Odriozola ??. #ACMilan
(@FabrizioRomano via @podcastherewego?)
— Football Transfers (@Transferzone00) June 23, 2021
Central Midfielder: Timémoué Bakayoko (Chelsea)
Here’s a complicated love story that is yet to reach a happy ending. The Frenchman spent the 2018/19 campaign on loan at Milan and despite a solid season, the Italians were unable to make the move permanent due to his high transfer value at the time.
Loan spells at Monaco and Napoli ensued, but the 26-year-old wasn’t able to replicate his Rossoneri form elsewhere.
With one year left on his Chelsea contract, the European champions would be willing to permanently sell on the (relatively) cheap, and his return to Milan would offer Pioli some much-needed depth in midfield, and allow him to switch to three in the middle if needed.
Milan are thinking about bringing back Bakayoko to replace Meite ?
? Sky Italia pic.twitter.com/Y84H8My6k1
— Italian Football TV (@IFTVofficial) June 23, 2021
Attacking Midfielder: Brahim Diaz (Real Madrid)
Following the departure of Hakan Calhanoglu (who joined their city rivals Inter), the Spaniard’s presence is now vital for Milan’s attacking-midfield department.
The youngster showed some flashes of brilliance – especially by the end of the season when he cemented himself a starting role – and should only get better if given a second season at Milanello.
Although it wouldn’t hurt if the Diavolo managed to add a more experienced name to their ranks – perhaps Marcel Sabitzer – Diaz’s signing should be secured anyway.
(☀️) Constant contacts between the parties, with the intention of closing within the next week. AC Milan are working to try to keep Brahim Diaz ??. New updates are expected in the coming days. [@SkySport] #RMAlive #Milan pic.twitter.com/3bX7qFowBF
— RouteOneFootball (@Route1futbol) June 27, 2021
Center Forward: Olivier Giroud (Chelsea)
Perhaps not the most popular choice, but rather a reasonable one. As long as Ibrahimovic reigns supreme at Milan, he’ll always be the ultimate first choice.
Thus, it wouldn’t make sense for the management to make a big investment on a younger striker only to keep him on the bench, awaiting the Swede’s unavailability in order to play.
On the other hand, the Frenchman is an expert at playing the backup role, and would be a reliable option either as a starter or from the bench.
AC Milan are in talks with Chelsea to sign Olivier Giroud as main target –
personal terms already agreed until June 2023. ? #CFCAC Milan asked also for Hakim Ziyech and Tiemoué Bakayoko as opportunities – but nothing advanced yet. Chelsea won’t make any discount. ? @SkySport
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 22, 2021