AC Milan ready to sell some of their most promising players, and a few could end up at Emirates Stadium…
AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri has indicated the club could offload some of its lesser-used younger players over the next few weeks, with Premier League clubs set to snap up some of the more promising talents.
Arsenal in particular have been linked with moves for Stephan El Shaarawy and Mattia De Sciglio, as they look to fill gaping holes in their squad in chase of a UEFA Champions League place at the end of the season.
The Gunners have money to spend, and January could be the time to take advantage with AC Milan looking to cut costs as soon as possible.
A day before the Rossoneri host Reggina in an Italian Cup last 16 tie, Allegri said it was time Milan’s 32-man squad was trimmed.
The coach, however, did not specify which players would go, indicating only that rarely-used French striker Mbaye Niang would remain at the club.
“We have a squad of 32 players… and the board have agreed that some younger players will be leaving to gain experience and others will leave to get some first team football,” said Allegri.
“Niang will stay certainly.
“He can play as a central striker, but he has his own characteristics: he’s good in front of goal and he learns very quickly.
“He could come in handy for the second half of the season.”
After starting the season in disastrous fashion following the loss of several key players in the summer, Milan have enjoyed a resurgence of late to climb up to seventh in Serie A, albeit 14 points behind leaders and defending champions Juventus.
One youngster the club would like to keep hold of in an ideal world is 20-year-old Stephan El Shaarawy, who with 13 league goals tops the Serie A scoring charts.
Allegri put a shot across the precocious youngster’s bows, hinting there could be an issue between the Italy international and himself.
“Stephan is doing very well but he is still only 20 and has room for improvement in a lot of different areas of his game.”
He would be of particular interest to Premier League clubs, with Arsenal still on the lookout for a striker to replace Robin Van Persie – and despite Allegri’s words, every player has his price.
20 year-old right back Mattia De Sciglio has looked a real talent when he has played, and with Bacary Sagna yet to agree a new contract, he could also move to Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal have had a tough run in recent years, but with improved partnerships coming in consistently as they pay off their new ground, there is much to be encouraged about for Arsenal fans.
These two signings would be a great start.
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