Last-minute operations [Newsletter]

The final days of the mercato are upon us and AC Milan still have a few operations that they want to complete. From the signing of a new striker to the exit of an unpopular one, Giorgio Furlani and Geoffrey Moncada have their hands full. Stefano Pioli’s focus, meanwhile, lies elsewhere.

We are two games into the new season and Milan have started very well with six points and six goals registered, conceding just one goal in the process. As we discussed at length in our latest bonus article, though, the litmus test awaits as the Rossoneri will take on Roma away from home on Friday evening.

Jose Mourinho’s side might not be in the best of moods after one draw and one loss, not to mention the fact that Paulo Dybala should miss the game due to an injury. However, it’s the first big game for Milan and it will be very interesting to see how the new tactics will hold up against a bigger side.

On the mercato front, Milan have reached an agreement with Bologna for the transfer of Alexis Saelemaekers. More details of the operation are in the news bulletin below, but it was an expected goodbye given the request of the winger himself (as we said in our bonus on the matter). The likes of Fode Ballo-Toure and Divock Origi, who have made things difficult this summer, still need offloading though.

In addition to these sales, the Rossoneri are still after a new striker so that Lorenzo Colombo can get his loan move to Monza. Just based on the first two games, playing zero minutes, it’s clear that the youngster could use a loan to get consistent playing time and continue his development. Mehdi Taremi appears to be the No.1 choice, even if Porto are playing hardball, and we will have to wait and see if an agreement can be reached.

In the last days of the mercato, there is always room for surprises and it remains to be seen if Milan will be at the centre of one (or maybe two). Having made nine signings already, though, the depth can only be considered much better compared to last season and Pioli has certainly made it clear that he’s happy with the reinforcements - although the squad needs some trimming.

News bulletin

➤ Milan’s Primavera side prevailed in their season opener as they scored three goals against Monza in a 3-1 win. Diego Sia was the big hero with a brace, leading Ignazio Abate’s men to a well-deserved and impressive opening-day victory.

➤ If you haven't already, you need to read our in-depth tactical analysis of the 4-1 win against Torino, in which our writer Nick Smoothy highlights Mike Maignan's role as a deep-lying playmaker and a more sophisticated direct approach.

➤ We have received confirmations regarding the reports that emerged on Sunday night suggesting Bayern Munich are interested in a move for Pierre Kalulu. However, a sizeable asking price has been set and time is running out.

➤ Milan still strongly believe that they can get a deal for Mehdi Taremi over the line before the transfer window closes, according to Gianluca Di Marzio and other sources. A bid should be made soon which will test Porto's resolve.

➤ Alexis Saelemaekers is one step away from leaving after three and a half years, having said yes to Bologna. The clubs have reached an agreement over an initial loan deal with a €10.5m package and the move is now imminent.

➤ An interesting piece from James Horncastle of The Athletic spoke about how CEO Giorgio Furlani has set about undoing the mistakes from last summer, including the signing of Divock Origi which went against the concerns of the data team.

In case you missed it

Make sure to check out the latest podcast episode, and our latest bonus podcast in which the lads talk about Marco Pellegrino and more. On Friday, we will also publish another bonus podcast reacting to the UCL group stage draw. Are you interested in a paid subscription? Read all about it here.