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Adrien Rabiot is now the main target for AC Milan to reinforce the midfield and contacts have been initiated between all parties, a report claims.
There isn’t much time left on the transfer window, as Gazzetta dello Sport highlights this morning (see photo below), and Allegri has put the ‘work in progress’ sign back on the midfield.
Luka Modric can’t do it all alone, while Youssouf Fofana (a fighter with no shooting ability) and Ruben Loftus-Cheek (a strong player with little aggression) haven’t impressed.
As such, the final days of the mercato will be very busy for Milan. In fact, they are expected to be one of the busiest clubs in Serie A, with all departments potentially getting reinforcements. In midfield, the sights have been set on Rabiot.
Clubs initiate contacts
Rabiot not only provides solidity with his experience, but also a quality left foot. Allegri is ready to give him a leading role and their relationship has remained strong since the time at Juventus. Indeed, both would be happy to reunite.
The midfielder’s brawl with the former teammate Rowe, now at Bologna, is officially over. However, Marseille expected an apology from the player which they, in the end, didn’t get. The relationship has subsequently been compromised and the door has been left open to a sale.
For Milan, the price is sustainable given Rabiot’s age and contract situation, and contacts were initiated with the French side yesterday. The initial price tag is set at around €15m and Ismael Bennacer won’t be part of the deal, as Roberto De Zerbi isn’t convinced by his qualities.
Salary within reach
While the price tag is reasonable, actually reaching a final agreement is a different thing and the same can be said about Rabiot’s salary. The relationship with Allegri aside, the player’s agent/mother could ask for a high figure, as was the case when he was a free agent last summer.
In the end, Rabiot accepted a move to Marseille at a much lower salary and with a contract until 2026, so perhaps the demands have been lowered. Furthermore, Milan are considering a deal until at least 2027, which is another reason for Rabiot and his mother to play ball.
As the pink newspaper continues, the potential salary is definitely within Milan’s parameters at €5-6m per season including bonuses. If both parties want to reach an agreement, it shouldn’t be too difficult to get there.
More contacts are expected today between Milan and Rabiot’s mother, having only gone through intermediaries so far. Aston Villa and Tottenham are also keeping an eye on the situation, but they don’t have Allegri on the bench.
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