Milan are weighing up a tactical reshuffle that could see Davide Bartesaghi deployed in a defensive role rather than recruiting a new centre-back. Manager Ruben Amorim believes his current squad offers sufficient cover at the back, despite earlier reports linking the Rossoneri with Sporting CP defender Goncalo Inacio.
With the summer transfer window closing in just over a week, Italian outlets suggest Amorim views Bartesaghi as a versatile solution to potential defensive shortages. Bartesaghi enjoyed a breakthrough campaign operating as a left wing-back under Massimiliano Allegri last term, but the current regime sees him capable of slotting into the left side of a three-man defence.
Amorim assesses defensive resources
The manager already has four players competing for three starting berths: summer signing Mario Gila, Italy international Matteo Gabbia, Strahinja Pavlovic and Koni De Winter. Young prospect Sankhoun Diawara has also arrived from Troyes to bolster the ranks, whilst reports indicate Filippo Terracciano could remain with the Rossoneri despite earlier expectations of a departure.
Bartesaghi’s potential repositioning would provide a seventh defensive option, allowing Milan to cope with Fikayo Tomori’s potential exit without investing heavily in a replacement. Amorim has informed the defender that he is not part of the plans for the coming season.
Attack remains absolute priority
Securing offensive reinforcements dominates Milan’s agenda before the deadline. The club have already spent substantially this summer, notably securing Goncalo Ramos from Paris Saint-Germain at a club-record fee, alongside wing-back Diego Moreira and centre-back Gila.
However, further additions hinge on outgoings. Amorim has decided that Christopher Nkunku, Santiago Gimenez and Youssouf Fofana join Tomori on the list of unwanted players. The club are actively working to relocate all four to generate funds and squad space.
Inacio pursuit complicated by competition
Whilst initial reports suggested Milan were monitoring Goncalo Inacio, they face stiff competition from Barcelona and several Saudi Pro League clubs for the Portugal international’s signature. With time running short and attacking additions taking precedence, the Rossoneri may ultimately focus their limited resources upfront rather than engaging in a bidding war for the Sporting centre-back.