According to ESPN Transfer Talk, Samu Castillejo may still depart AC Milan. A move to Hertha Berlin fell through on deadline day, but now CSKA Moscow are generating heavy interest. Sport24 in Russia quoted Milan’s Director of Football, Frederic Massara, as saying: “There is indeed interest from CSKA, I can’t say more yet.”
The transfer window in Russia does not close until September 7th, allowing CSKA to have a few more days to close the deal. Castillejo is also deemed redundant for Milan, especially after they signed Junior Messias. Furthermore, Castillejo was not named in Milan’s Champions League squad.
ESPN mentions that negotiations are going on, but a price is not agreed upon yet. CSKA would prefer a loan with an obligation to buy, whereas Milan would rather an outright sale. The clock is ticking for CSKA to replace Nikola Vlasic, whom they sold to West Ham United.
Samu Castillejo Likely to Leave AC Milan
Rough Patch at Milan, But Possible Fresh Start
Castillejo, from an outsider point of view, is a solid player. He’s quick, can take defenders on, and provides great deliveries from the wing. His pace, if he can improve in positioning, also makes him a prime target for through passes. He’s the stereotypical winger a team wants.
The issue, however, is inconsistency. At times he shone for Milan whilst in Europa League, but was often a no-show on the pitch when it came to Serie A matches. Perhaps the pressure and tougher opponents played a role in this, but that’s not the profile most teams want.
Before Milan, Castillejo impressed at Villareal. That earned him a transfer to Milan worth over €20 million. Last season, in a combined 38 matches, Castillejo scored three goals and provided three assists. Although he spent the majority of the season as a back-up, that doesn’t cut it for a team with serious current Scudettoexpectations.
CSKA presents a fresh start. The Russian club often competes for the league title in their country, and just lost one of their top players in Vlasic. Castillejo clearly has strong capabilities, and jumping into a starting role in Russia may be exactly what he needs to restart his career.
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