Tonight’s big clash at the Allianz Stadium between Juventus and Milan will be about more than just tactics and a historic rivalry. As aptly highlighted by Corriere dello Sport, the Serie A matchday three classic represents a genuine showcase of financial sustainability applied to the laws of the pitch. The spotlight will be firmly on the two new strikers brought in to break down opposing defences: Randal Kolo Muani in Luciano Spalletti’s 4-2-3-1 and Gonçalo Ramos in Rúben Amorim’s 3-4-2-1.
Kolo Muani vs Gonçalo Ramos: The PSG connection and the weight of their price tags
The paths of the two centre-forwards cross again after their shared experience in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower. Both have arrived in Italy to prove their true worth, carrying hefty investments from their respective clubs. Kolo Muani, who was already singled out by Spalletti in recent days with the pointed remark, “If he hasn’t played for two years, there must be a reason,” could cost the Bianconeri up to €53 million in total, including bonuses, spread over four years.
Even more expensive is the deal put together by the club for Gonçalo Ramos. The Portuguese striker comes with a fixed price tag of €74 million, a figure set to exceed €80 million if a series of complex bonuses are reached. PSG have maximised the value of their luxury reserves, bringing in a total amount ranging between €115 million and €133 million. Now, these two strikers have been entrusted with the mission of reshaping the balance of power in the league and keeping both clubs firmly in the race for Champions League qualification and the Scudetto.
Eye-watering figures: Milan’s transfer record revolution
Gonçalo Ramos’ arrival at Milanello has rewritten the pages of the Rossoneri’s transfer history, officially becoming the most expensive signing in Milan’s history. Rafael Leão has been knocked off the top spot, with his total cost, including his 2019 transfer fee and the subsequent settlement of his FIFA fine, standing at €49.5 million before his summer move to Galatasaray. Leão has now dropped all the way to third in this particular ranking, also overtaken by another of Gerry Cardinale’s summer signings: winger Diego Moreira, who was brought in from Strasbourg for €50 million plus bonuses, as relayed via PianetaMilan.it.
Juventus’ response: Heavy investment in young talent
The management at Corso Galileo Ferraris certainly did not stand idly by, matching Milan’s investments with moves of their own. While German giant Nick Woltemade represents a relatively modest financial operation, having arrived on a straight loan from Newcastle for just €4.1 million, Juventus have injected as much as €50 million into the young talent market. Of that sum, €18 million was invested in the signing of Jeff Ekhator, while a further €32 million was spent to secure rising star Kerim Alajbegović, beating competition from Milan after a lengthy pursuit. Juventus and Milan have spared no expense in restoring the lustre of their respective names and challenging Inter’s supremacy. The verdict at the Stadium will provide the first eagerly awaited answers.
