It is only a matter of time before Renato Sanches’ switch from Lille to Milan becomes official. The Sun reported a few days ago that the highly-rated midfielder already has a verbal agreement with the Rossoneri to join them in the summer.
Now Calciomercato insists the official announcement is coming soon. Sanches has been one of Milan’s long-term targets. The freshly-crowned Serie A champions tried to lure him away from Ligue 1 last summer but to no avail.
Lille stood firm in the hope they could retain the domestic crown. However, after a thoroughly underwhelming 2021/22 campaign, Les Dogues have no other option but to let their prized asset depart the club.
With no European football for Lille next season, Sanches is ready to leave France after three years. And though Arsenal were also interested in acquiring the 24-year-old’s signature, his future seemingly lies in Italy.
Milan and Sanches have a ‘verbal agreement’ in place. So it is now up to the Rossoneri to strike a deal with Lille. Negotiations between the clubs are underway, and it’s only a matter of time before they announce the arrangement.
Juventus were looking to hijack Milan’s move for the Portugal international. However, Massimiliano Allegri will have to shift his attention elsewhere now that the Rossoneri are on the cusp of landing Sanches.
Our take on Sanches’ move to Milan
Sanches has developed into one of Europe’s best-performing midfielders since swapping Bayern Munich for Lille in 2019. For years, he has been considered one of the hottest prospects, and it seems he is now close to fulfiling his potential.
Strong with the ball at his feet as he is at winning it back, Sanches is a prototype of a modern-day midfielder. His box-to-box style of play bears much resemblance to Franck Kessie, who is on his way to joining Barcelona as a free agent.
Indeed, Milan see Sanches as not only a long-term replacement for the Ivorian star but an immediate upgrade on their current midfield options. The Portuguese’s impending move to San Siro makes every sense.