Milan Pushing to Sign RB Salzburg Forward

Milan and Juventus could reportedly embroil in a transfer tug-of-war to prise up-and-coming forward Noah Okafor away from RB Salzburg. Fabrizio Romano reports the Rossoneri have rekindled their interest in the 23-year-old on Stefano Pioli’s insistence. 

Okafor was on the club’s radar last summer, but negotiations with Salzburg never gained momentum. However, that could change in the coming weeks. Pioli is keen to add the Switzerland international to his squad. 

Since Zlatan Ibrahimovic announced his retirement toward the end of last season, Milan have been in the market for a new striker. Villarreal forward Arnaut Danjuma has recently emerged as a potential target for the seven-time European champions.

Ibrahimovic’s departure has left Milan with aging Olivier Giroud and underperforming Divock Origi as the only center-forward options. The Rossoneri would ideally sever ties with the Belgian. But the player doesn’t fancy a move. 

Even if he stays, Milan won’t give up their pursuit of a new marksman. Okafor has been on Pioli’s list ever since he scored against the Rossoneri in last season’s Champions League group stages. Yet, Salzburg’s asking price is still uncertain, with Lazio also listed among potential suitors.

Claudio Lotito’s side shouldn’t rival Milan for Okafor after closing in on New York City star Valentin Castellanos. But Pioli should watch out for Juventus. The Bianconeri are bracing themselves for life after Dusan Vlahovic. They would have the means to pip the Rossoneri to the Swiss forward’s signature.