Longoni: Why Milan should go for Udinese defender over Thiago Silva return

The decision to replace Malick Thiaw with a rotational option did not go down well with many AC Milan fans, and now, winter investment is needed.

Saying that the defensive line needs help may be a little unfair. After all, there can be a lot of confidence about how Milan have been this year. They have only conceded nine goals, which is not as strong as it once was, but it is better than nothing.

Regardless of that fact, with only one injury, the defensive line looks quite poor in terms of depth, so recruitment is a must in January.

Who to sign?

Thiago Silva’s name has popped up regularly; however, it seems that route will not be taken, with Matteo Moretto shutting down the idea earlier this week. So instead, the Rossoneri may go for another target, maybe one closer to home.

This afternoon, Andrea Longoni gave his opinion on the situation in a piece for Calciomercato.com.

“Let’s start with the defence, where there are two opposing philosophies: either go for an experienced player like Thiago Silva or a youngster like Udinese’s Kristensen. The Brazilian would certainly be an attractive move: he’d be a great return, a player ready to use.

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“But rationally, it’s important to remember that at 41, the risk of injury is just around the corner, and he’d be playing at the end of his season, therefore, with reserve status on the table.

“That’s why it might be more logical to focus on someone like Udinese’s Dane: six months of acclimatisation (also because Gabbia is currently almost untouchable) and then a full-time start next year.”