After an encouraging start of the season, Milan have been on a decline since the turn of the new year. The Rossoneri handed the Serie A lead to their neighbors Inter, and were eliminated by Manchester United in the Round of 16 of the Europa League.
Despite adding Fikayo Tomori, Soualiho Meité and Mario Mandzukic to their ranks in January, the Diavolo still need to enhance several departments within their squad, especially the following three positions.
Right Winger
Alexis Saelemaekers is considered as Stefano Pioli’s first choice in this position, but the young winger is yet to find his best form in 2021. Although time is on his side – considering his young age – the club’s supporters are still unsure about his ability to become one of the club’s pillars.
On the other hand, Samu Castillejo can be a decent impact-sub at times, but after several years in Milano, it is becoming obvious that the former Villarreal man is far from being a perfect fit for Italian football.
Therefore, Milan would do well to bring a quality winger who can replace the Spaniard, whilst allowing the younger Belgian the time to slowly develop his skills.
Domenico Berardi would be an ideal option at this point.
Attacking Midfielder
If Paolo Maldini and Ricky Massara can somehow reach an agreement with Hakan Calhanoglu over a contract extension, then this scenario would allow the management to focus on strengthening other areas.
However, the Turkish international seems to be heading towards free agency, and his young replacement Brahim Diaz is expected to be back at Real Madrid once his loan spell ends.
Thus, a new attacking midfielder would be a priority for Milan. Could it be Porto’s Ottavio?
Center Forward
As mentioned above, the Rossoneri added Mandzukic to their roster in the winter.
However, the former Juventus striker has so far mostly acted as a loyal companion for Zlatan Ibrahimovic on the treatment table – which isn’t a big surprise considering their ages of 34 and 39 respectively.
Since Milan plan to maintain the Swedish legend beyond his 40th birthday, then they should at least find him a younger alternative who he can rotate with – Someone other than Leao who is struggling in the number 9 role.
Should the Diavolo revive their old interest in Andrea Belotti?