Milan Shortlist Chelsea and Manchester City Defensive Outcasts

Simon Kjaer’s absence has really not been felt at the San Siro due to the impressive domestic performances of the Milan backline – who are the fourth best defense in Italy after Napoli, Inter and Juventus, having conceded just 23 goals in 21 matches.

However, the Dane’s reaffirming presence is certainly missed among the back four. His knee injury has ruled him out for the rest of the season, prompting the Rossoneri to hunt for reinforcement in the stopper position.

According to reports from Il Corriere della Sera (via MilanNews), two targets are actively being scouted by the Milan giants. Malang Sarr of Chelsea and Nathan Ake of Manchester City are both said to be realistic targets for the Rossoneri.

Both are outcasts at their respective English clubs, making their exit very much likely if Milan were to initiate talks.

The January transfer window opens up a window of opportunity for Milan to fortify their impressive defense that now has only Fikayo Tomori, Alessio Romagnoli and Matteo Gabbia as the other pure center-backs in the club’s ranks. The former two are out for the time being due to coronavirus, with both their date of returns unknown.

Milan have also been heavily linked to other talents in Europe such as Lille’s Sven Botman, Chelsea’s Andreas Christensen, Lazio’s Francesco Acerbi and Torino’s Gleison Bremer.