Samuele Ricci's first season at AC Milan was, all things considered, a positive one. He made 31 appearances, scoring one goal and providing four assists. The former Torino captain played regularly despite being behind two world-class midfielders, Adrien Rabiot and Luka Modrić, in the pecking order.
The main issue under the club's new direction, however, is tactical: Ricci's playing style is not considered an ideal fit for Rúben Amorim's system. In Amorim's preferred two-man midfield, he wants players who interpret the role differently from the Italian international.
Two Italian clubs approached
Although Ricci is under contract until June 2029 and Milan invested €23 million to sign him, he is not regarded as untouchable. His representatives have already begun exploring the market to assess potential opportunities. In recent days, they have held talks with both Juventus and Atalanta, offering the two clubs the chance to sign the 2001-born midfielder, wrties Calcio Mercato.
Juventus sporting directors Giovanni Carnevali and Frederic Massara are working towards building a squad with a stronger Italian core than in previous years, and Ricci has been admired by the club for several months. During the last winter transfer window, there were even reports of a possible swap deal involving Federico Gatti. At Atalanta, meanwhile, Ricci would have a significant admirer in Maurizio Sarri, who repeatedly requested his signing during his time as Lazio manager.
€20 million required:
Ricci has approached the opening phase of pre-season with professionalism and determination, aiming to convince Amorim that he deserves a place in the squad. However, the Portuguese coach is keen to avoid having too many midfielders, as Milan currently have seven players competing for just two central midfield positions. That is considered excessive, even with the club set to compete in the UEFA Europa League next season.
Milan are willing to let Ricci leave, but only for the right price. Any interested club would need to offer at least €20 million before negotiations could begin. Just twelve months after joining the Rossoneri, Ricci could already be on his way out of the club.
