Official: Udinese sign Juan David Arizala – why his move to Milan fell apart

Udinese have officially announced the signing of Juan David Arizala, which means AC Milan have missed out on him.

On their website, Udinese confirm the arrival of Arizala on a permanent deal from Independiente de Medellín, after the reports that circulated in recent days suggesting they had won the race. He has signed a contract until 30 June 2031.

The statement continues: “The Colombian is the epitome of a modern winger, capable of playing in all roles, from full-back to full-back in a back four, and even as a winger when needed.

“Juan David Arizala was born in El Charco (Colombia) on October 10, 2005. He developed through the youth academy of Independiente de Medellín, where he made his first-team debut in 2023.

“He also gained playing time and experience at the continental level in the Copa Sudamericana. In total, in two and a half years, he has made 54 appearances, scoring three goals across the league, domestic cups, and continental competitions.

“Arizala is considered one of the best talents in South America in that position. He has 22 caps and one goal for Colombia’s Under-20 team, with whom he starred in the World Cup a few months ago.

“Now it’s time for him to begin this new adventure, continuing the great tradition of the Cafeteros in black and white. He’ll wear the number 20 jersey.”

Why Milan missed out

The reliable Matteo Moretto claimed late last year that Milan would sign Arizala for around €3m. Fabrizio Romano even gave the deal his famous ‘here we go’ stamp, and then Moretto went on to reveal that the Rossoneri planned to send him on loan to Toulouse in Ligue 1.

Calciomercato.com have provided some information on why things fell apart. They confirm that Milan had practically sealed the deal, so much so that they had begun preparing the logistics of his trip to Italy.

The Rossoneri’s plan was for the talent to join Milan Futuro in Serie D before being potentially sent to Toulouse in France. However, the French club had no room to take him, and this delay proved to be decisive.

In the end the Colombia U20 international was persuaded by the interest Udinese and the possibility of fighting for a spot in the first team and playing in Italy’s top division right away.