As the summer transfer window heats up, AC Milan finds itself in the midst of a meticulous squad overhaul, aiming to fortify its ranks across key positions. The Rossoneri`s management is navigating a complex web of negotiations, player aspirations, and financial realities, with prominent targets like Pervis Estupinan and Dusan Vlahovic at the forefront of their strategic pursuits. This isn`t merely a shopping spree; it`s a carefully orchestrated plan to elevate the team`s competitiveness.
The Left-Back Lure: Estupinan`s Imminent Arrival
The path for Ecuadorian left-back Pervis Estupinan appears to be well-trodden, with AC Milan reportedly reaching an agreement with the Brighton player on a five-year contract, promising a net salary of €2.5 million per season. This move is seen as a crucial reinforcement for the left flank, potentially offering a robust alternative or successor to Theo Hernandez.
The financial dance with Brighton, however, is still underway. Brighton`s initial valuation stands at €23 million, a figure seemingly at odds with the understanding forged in spring by Estupinan`s agent, Jorge Mendes. Milan’s opening bid of €12 million plus bonuses was, predictably, declined. The club now aims to secure the deal around €15 million, though a total package closer to €20 million, including performance-based variables, is considered their upper limit. Milan`s cautious approach, perhaps a lesson learned from past transfer sagas, indicates a desire for a swift, yet financially prudent, resolution. The hope is for Estupinan to undergo medical examinations early next week, joining his prospective teammates for their Singapore tour. His Spanish passport, fortunately, streamlines the bureaucratic aspects, avoiding the complexities associated with non-EU players.
Fortifying the Flanks: The Right-Back Conundrum
Milan`s defensive reinforcements extend to the right flank, where Almeria`s Marc Pubill is under consideration. Recent medical tests in Barcelona, scrutinizing the condition of his left knee, which underwent surgery in late 2023, yielded encouraging results. While a positive medical assessment is a significant step, it doesn`t guarantee a transfer. Milan`s leadership is acutely aware of the €15 million asking price and the interest from clubs like Wolverhampton.
The Rossoneri are deliberating carefully, considering Pubill alongside other prospects, including Doué from Strasbourg, who comes with a steeper price tag of €25 million plus bonuses. This position is deemed “fundamental,” underscoring Milan`s commitment to avoiding missteps in crucial squad building. The patience exercised here is a testament to the club`s revised, more analytical approach to the market.
The Striker Hunt: Vlahovic and the High-Stakes Game
While defensive solidity is paramount, the search for a prolific striker remains a top priority. Juventus`s Dusan Vlahovic stands out as the primary target for Milan`s attack. However, the path to acquiring the Serbian forward is far from straightforward. The conditions for a definitive push are contingent on Juventus securing a replacement striker themselves – a familiar domino effect in high-profile transfers.
Vlahovic, it seems, is increasingly open to the prospect of a move. Milan is prepared to offer a substantial contract, though it falls short of the hefty €12 million net (over €22 million gross) he is set to earn at Juventus in 2025-26. Milan`s proposed deal would begin around €6 million net per season, supplemented by bonuses tied to goals and Scudetto victories, with potential increases in future years should the club consistently secure Champions League qualification.
The financial puzzle doesn`t end there. Juventus`s balance sheet reflects Vlahovic`s amortization at approximately €19.5 million, a figure they would ideally recoup. Talks for a contract renewal with Juventus have stalled, and even the idea of a one-year extension to facilitate a low-cost loan-to-buy option doesn`t appeal to Vlahovic`s representatives. His financial calculus appears rather straightforward: why settle for less when one can command more, at least for another year, before potentially moving as a free agent? Milan, therefore, remains in a state of watchful waiting, ready to pounce when the conditions align. They are also monitoring alternative options, such as Rasmus Hojlund from Manchester United, though he is considered a loan-only prospect due to his different profile compared to a pure “number nine.”
Gilbert Pendleton 
Wesley Dunham