Ever since the San Siro lights dim on a tough campaign, fans have been asking a burning question: who should AC Milan sign to restore glory, chase the Scudetto, and dominate Europe again? In this article, StefaKick will guide you through Milan’s squad reality, the glaring gaps, the most promising targets, and the transfer strategy that could elevate the Rossoneri back to elite status.
Current Squad Snapshot & Tactical Demands
Squad strengths and recent changes
AC Milan’s 2025-26 roster carries both experience and fresh blood. The club parted ways with heavyweights like Theo Hernández, Pierre Kalulu, and Yacine Adli, while bringing in new faces such as Samuele Ricci and Pervis Estupiñán.
Up front, Christopher Nkunku signed, and Santiago Giménez arrived earlier in a big-money move.uters.com]) That gives Milan more attacking options, though depth is still a concern. Defensively, central defender roles are covered by Fikayo Tomori, Strahinja Pavlović, Matteo Gabbia, and younger players like Koni De Winter.ansfermarkt])
Tactical approach and how it shapes needs
With Max Allegri back in charge, Milan are expected to adopt a 4-3-3 or hybrid formation that combines defense solidity with positional transitions. Under Allegri’s style, one forward may drop deep at times, and midfield control becomes essential. Meanwhile, Milan’s defense must be more consistent to withstand both Serie A and European challenges., gaps clearly exist in:
- Squad depth in central defense and full-back positions
- Creative, box-to-box midfielders who can help link attack and defense
- A reliable backup or rotational striker
- Younger, high-ceiling players to sustain a long campaign
Thus, when asking who should AC Milan sign, we should focus on players that strengthen these zones without unbalancing the wage or age structure.
Top Transfer Targets for AC Milan
Below are several names frequently linked with moves to Milan, each matching a specific need.
Defensive targets
- Joe Gomez
- Reports suggest Milan may revive a signing bid in January, as Gomez lacks consistent playing time at Liverpool. His versatility (center-back, full-back) fits well with Allegri’s rotation demands.
Midfield reinforcements
- Samuele Ricci
- Milan has long held an interest in Ricci to re-establish Italian core identity. He’d offer stability and age balance primarily in a dee.
- Sandro Tonali
- One of the dream names floated in media: a return to Italy could appeal.otball-italia.net]) His possession and transitional skills would complement Milan’s need for midfield creativity.
- Youth Italian midfielders
- Milan’s policy to fortify its “Italian core” suggests they’ll remain active among promising domestic midfielders, aiming to blend continuity with freshness.
Attacking or striker options
- Robert Lewandowski
- Though past his prime, Lewandowski is rumored to be in talks with Milan, leveraging his goalscoring instincts and experience. He could serve as a mentor and impact sub.
- Noni Madueke
- Listed among players Milan could pursue to repower the wings. His pace and dribbling would enhance the attack options beyond the standard frontline.
Recommended Priorities & Transfer Strategy
1. Defensive solidity first
Adding depth at the back must be high on Milan’s to-do list. Whether it’s Gomez, or an emerging defender, Milan need insurance against injuries and rotation fatigue.
2. Midfield balance over glamour
While signing a superstar always excites fans, Milan should prioritize midfielders who can endure 50+ matches, provide intelligence, and adapt to Allegri’s shifts.
3. Attacking depth with potential
Withunku and Giménez likely claiming many minutes, Milan needs plan B strikers or rotational pieces. A Lewandowski-type or a younger forward with upside could be smart additions.
4. Italian or Serie A familiarity advantage
Signing talent already versed in Italy’s tactical demands reduces adaptation time. That’s part of Milan’s “Italian core” approach.
5. Wage and age control
Milan must avoid overspending on aging stars. Strategic deals may preserve financial flexibility.
Who Should AC Milan Sign — Our Ideal XI With Add-Ons
Here’s a speculative 2025-26 “wish list” XI, blending current squad and target signings:
|
Position |
Starter / Ideal Target |
|
GK |
Mike Maignan |
|
RB |
Estupiñán (new), with backup prospect |
|
CBs |
Fikayo Tomori – Joe Gomez |
|
LB |
Pervis Estupiñán or homegrown alternative |
|
DM / holding mid |
Samuele Ricci or Tonali |
|
CM |
Youssouf Fofana / Adrien Rabiot |
|
Attacking mid / FW |
Christian Pulisic / Nkunku |
|
LW |
Rafael Leão or Madueke |
|
ST |
Santiago Giménez / Lewandowski backup |
With these signings, Milan would balance youth, experience, Italian identity, and tactical flexibility.
Key Risks & Challenges
Competition from rival clubs
Targets like Tonali or Gomez already attract interest — Milan must act decisively.
Aging core
Players like Luka Modrić and Rabiot will continue to age — new proactive signings are essential.
Financial constraints
Milan must remain compliant with financial rules and avoid overextending on big contracts.
Squad harmony & integration
Bringing in many new faces can unsettle team chemistry; phasing in smartly is vital.
Injury risks
Depth is only useful if new signings stay healthy. Medical evaluations and pro.
Conclusion
Who should AC Milan sign? The answer is not one marquee superstar, but a balanced combination: a defensive reinforcement (like Joe Gomez), a dynamic Italian or box-to-box midfielder (Ricci or Tonali), and attacking depth (through youth or an experienced figure like Lewandowski). These strategic additions will mesh with Allegri’s tactics, strengthen weak zones, and position Milan for both domestic resurgence and European ambition.
Now, it’s your turn: which signing excites you most? Follow StefaKick for more transfer analysis, club deep dives, and season forecasts — and drop by again when another big rumor sparks.
