Samuele Ricci could depart AC Milan just twelve months after joining the club, with the Serie A side ready to entertain offers starting at €20 million. The midfielder’s representatives have already approached both Juventus and Atalanta as coach Ruben Amorim looks to streamline his options ahead of the new campaign.
The potential exit stems from a tactical mismatch rather than any decline in form. Sources indicate that Amorim’s preferred system offers limited scope for Ricci’s specific attributes, despite the 23-year-old managing 31 appearances, one goal and four assists during his debut season. He largely operated behind Adrien Rabiot and Luka Modric in the pecking order, though his output remained solid when called upon.
Squad Overhaul Prompts Sale
Milan’s midfield department is currently overcrowded, with seven senior players competing for two starting roles. This congestion, combined with the club’s desire to raise funds for further reinvestment, has led to a permanent sale being considered. Ricci arrived from Torino for €23 million last summer and remains contracted until 2029, ensuring Milan can demand a substantial fee.
The Rossoneri’s return to the Europa League next season does not appear to have altered their stance on squad size, with Amorim keen to avoid carrying excessive numbers in central areas.
Italian Giants Circle
Juventus have tracked Ricci for some time, with his name previously surfacing in discussions regarding a potential exchange involving defender Federico Gatti during the January transfer window. The Bianconeri are reportedly focusing on assembling a more Italian core within their squad.
Atalanta also feature prominently in the chase. Maurizio Sarri, who repeatedly sought to sign Ricci during his managerial tenure at Lazio, could finally secure the midfielder in Bergamo. The former Chelsea and Juventus coach is said to be a powerful advocate for the deal.
Uncertain Future
Despite the growing possibility of an exit, Ricci is understood to be working intensively during pre-season in an effort to convince Amorim to retain his services. Whether these efforts prove sufficient to earn a reprieve, or whether Milan press ahead with their sell-to-reinvest strategy, should become clear in the coming weeks as negotiations with interested parties progress.