Milan pursued Hakim Ziyech shortly after losing Hakan Calhanoglu. Even though they are after multiple targets, he remains on their shortlist for the role. Given the difficulties for Nikola Vlasic and Julian Brandt, he could be a serious option late in the window, Calciomercato.com reports.
The two sides have a tight relationship thanks to the successful deals for Fikayo Tomori and Olivier Giroud. However, Milan want the Moroccan attacker with the same formula they got the defender last year, on loan with option to buy. If they decided to move him, the Blues would prefer a straight sale, or at most an obligation to acquire him in a year.
Chelsea purchased Ziyech from Ajax for €40M plus €4M add-ons in 2020. He has not managed to establish himself as a linchpin of the formation under Thomas Tuchel. However, that does not mean that the London-based club will let him go for cheap.
Milan directors Paolo Maldini and Frederic Massara could propose terms similar to Brahim Diaz’s deal. The Spaniard returned on a two-year loan with a €25M option and a buyback clause for Real Madrid. The clubs are in touch, and the operation could be advantageous for both down the stretch.
The Rossoneri are prioritizing Vlasic, but face stiff competition from Zenit. Chelsea would be more open to partying ways with Ziyech they brought in some offensive pieces first. Milan also keep Marcel Sabitzer on the backburner for the no.10 position, but it is not easy to acquire him from RB Leipzig, La Gazzetta dello Sport relays.