Cissè admits PSV move was a ‘done deal’ until Milan came along: “I had no doubts”

Alphadjo Cissè has spoken of his delight after joining AC Milan towards the end of the winter transfer window.

On Monday afternoon – transfer deadline day – Milan officially confirmed the signing of Cissè on a permanent deal from Hellas Verona. As part of the deal, it was also announced that the teenager would remain on loan with Catanzaro, for whom he has six Serie B goals so far this term.

Many who watch the second tier believe that he is among the best young talents in Italian football, and they have reason to believe so. Milan have been watching him over the past 18 months, and swooped to beat PSV Eindhoven to the signature of Cissè.

In the end, the Rossoneri are expected to invest north of €8m in Cissè. The forward spoke to La Repubblica about his move to the Rossoneri late on in the winter mercato, and his comments were relayed by MilanPress.

How did the move come about?

“I’m happy, I signed for one of the biggest clubs in the world. It all happened quickly. I was supposed to go to PSV, it was a done deal. But then Milan came along, and I had no doubts.

“Also because they let me stay another six months in Catanzaro. I’ll be on retreat with them this summer, then we’ll see.”

Do you feel like part of the future of Italian football?

“One step at a time. But one day I hope to play for the national team.”

Image: AC Milan

You have been compared to Lamine Yamal…

“My ambition is to reach those levels.”

You are close to your family…

“I enjoy myself, but I put hard work first. I try to live by my parents’ teachings. My dream is to repay them and buy them a new house. I hope to soon have the strength to stop them from working.

“I’ll do it; it’s what matters most to me. I have an older sister, Aminata, who’s at university; and a little brother, Karamba, who also plays soccer and is like a son to me.”