Turns out AC Milan’s revolution was all a bit of a myth
AC Milan were supposed to return to the big time last season. Their summer spending, which acquired Hakan Çalhanoğlu, Andre Silva, Lucas Biglia, Ricardo Rodriguez and most notably Leonardo Bonucci.
The centre-back’s move from Juventus to AC Milan, while triggered by a row with Juve coach Max Allegri, was thought to be an indication that Milan would return to challenging for the Serie A title.
Of course, it didn’t quite pan out like that, and Milan once again failed to reach the Champions League spots and were banned from European competition after it was found that they had broken Financial Fair Play rules. The club have appealed for the decision to be overturned but it seems unlikely that UEFA will change their mind.
Therefore, it seems as though Bonucci is destined for the exit door after just one season at the San Siro.
Paris Saint-Germain are the frontrunners to sign the defender for a fee of around £35.5m, according to Calcio Mercato. The 31-year-old is understandably keen to return to playing Champions League football and will have to leave AC Milan to do so.
Bonucci’s composure on the ball and ability to play line breaking passes will suit PSG’s style well, while his experience playing in a back three at Juventus would give newly appointed manager Thomas Tuchel the option to change between systems, as he liked to do at Borussia Dortmund.
Manchester United were reported to be keen on the Italian defender, although their focus has turned towards Tottenham defender Toby Alderweireld. However, little progress has been made on that front. José Mourinho has admitted his frustration at the situation, saying: “I’m not going to say somebody is coming or nobody is coming. I really don’t know.”
