AC Milan are preparing to search for a new attacking playmaker if Rafael Leao leaves the club, with Brighton star Kaoru Mitoma emerging as one of the names considered by the Rossoneri.
However, despite interest from Milan owner Gerry Cardinale, Mitoma is reportedly unlikely to become the club's new No.10 due to concerns over his age, fitness and suitability for Ruben Amorim's system.
Leao's uncertain future is driving Milan's search, with Aston Villa now in contact over a potential transfer for the Portuguese forward.
Aston Villa move opens door for Leao exit
Leao and Milan appear to be moving closer towards a possible separation.
Galatasaray previously offered around €40million plus bonuses, but Milan are demanding €50m plus add-ons to sanction the 27-year-old's departure.
After that move slowed down, Jorge Mendes and other intermediaries began exploring opportunities in the Premier League.
Should Leao leave, Milan would use the closing days of the transfer window to find a new creative attacker.
Milan consider Brighton star Mitoma
According to Gianluca Di Marzio, Kaoru Mitoma has returned to Milan's thinking.
The Brighton winger has been linked with the Rossoneri previously, but his situation has become particularly interesting because his contract with the Seagulls expires in June 2027.
Brighton's reported interest in Milan midfielder Youssouf Fofana, who is available for transfer, adds another intriguing element to the situation.
There have been suggestions Milan could explore Mitoma now before potentially delaying a move until January.
Gerry Cardinale likes Mitoma
Milan owner Gerry Cardinale is reportedly a major admirer of the Japan international.
However, that appreciation is not necessarily shared when it comes to evaluating Mitoma as the right investment for Milan's current sporting project.
At 29 years old, the winger would have limited long-term resale potential.
There are also significant concerns surrounding his fitness.
Mitoma is currently recovering from injury and missed Brighton's opening two competitive fixtures of the season, against Tromso in Conference League qualifying and Aston Villa in the Premier League.
Mitoma not considered ideal No.10 for Amorim
Perhaps the biggest issue is tactical.
Mitoma is naturally at his best operating from the left flank, while Milan are looking for a player capable of becoming the new No.10 in Ruben Amorim's system.
Di Marzio therefore reports that Mitoma is not currently considered the ideal investment for the Rossoneri.
That means Milan's search is expected to continue if Leao completes his departure.
Key Points
- Aston Villa have opened talks over a potential move for Rafael Leao, with Milan seeking around €50m plus bonuses.
- Kaoru Mitoma has emerged as a possible replacement and is admired by Milan owner Gerry Cardinale.
- Brighton's interest in Youssouf Fofana could potentially become relevant to negotiations.
- Milan have concerns about Mitoma's age, recent injury problems and suitability as a No.10.
- The Rossoneri are therefore expected to pursue other targets if Leao leaves.
What’s Next?
Everything depends on Rafael Leao.
If Aston Villa can reach an agreement with Milan, the Rossoneri will need to move quickly to replace one of their most important attackers before the window closes.
Mitoma has admirers inside the club, but the current indications suggest Milan will look elsewhere for their new No.10 rather than committing significant money to the Brighton winger.
Who should Milan sign to replace Rafael Leao if the Portuguese star joins Aston Villa?
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