Renato Sanches has seen his name in the AC Milan transfer rumour mill, and he recently spoke about it to L’Équipé via Fabrizio Romano.
Sanches mentioned that he was set to move to Barcelona this summer, but his injury forced the deal to collapse. Sanches, however, sees Milan as a great and historical club with class. Overall, he says he likes the club.
In addition, Sanches knows what clubs are showing interest. He specifically mentions Milan along with Arsenal.
Renato Sanches and AC Milan Rumours Persist
A Realistic Fit
First of all, Milan hold depth in the midfield department. Manager Stefano Pioli uses a 4-2-3-1 formation, which calls for two central midfielders. Franck Kessie, Sandro Tonali, and Ismael Bennacer are the top options, whereas depth includes Tiémoué Bakayoko and Rade Krunic.
Kessie’s future, however, is currently in question. His contract expires this coming summer and no renewal has been completed yet. A player of Kessie’s calibre demands a certain salary, and that may be one Milan cannot afford. If that’s the case, big clubs across Europe will be circling Kessie’s entourage. The Ivorian is one of the top midfielders in Italy and can contribute to any team.
If Kessie were to depart, then Sanches is a very viable replacement for Milan. He currently plies his trade for Lille in France. It’s important to note that Milan hold a strong relationship with Lille. The Rossoneri purchased Rafael Leão and Mike Maignan – two vital starters – from the French club. Lille also has Tiago Djaló, whom they purchased from Milan.
Sanches is 24-years-old, the same age as Kessie. He was pivotal in Lille’s victorious Ligue 1 campaign last season. He also has experience for Bayern Munich and has shined for the Portugal national team as well. All in all, Sanches is very experienced.
Losing Kessie is not ideal for Milan, but they’re likely more open to the possibility due to Tonali’s emergence this season. Bennacer is also very consistent as well. Replacing Kessie, if he were to leave, with Sanches, is the best-case scenario for the Rossoneri.
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