Today, Alexis Saelemaekers turns 26 years old. One could say he’s still relatively young, despite already having significant experience in the Italian league. He played for Milan, winning a Scudetto—perhaps unexpected, but fully deserved. Then, over the past two seasons, he ended up in the loan carousel. First to a club that, on paper, was less prestigious—Bologna—where he helped secure a historic fifth-place finish and qualification for the Champions League, marking the club’s return to Europe’s top competition after more than 60 years. Then came a move to Roma, another fifth-place finish—unexpected for different reasons, like a poor start to the season that almost led to an even more dramatic comeback—and the impression that he might be redeemed permanently, as pointed out by Milannews.it.
Roma did not activate the buy option:
But that didn’t happen. This season, he scored 7 goals and provided 5 assists in the league, despite making just 23 appearances. If we include all competitions, the total rises to 32 appearances with two more assists. Milan currently values him at €25 million, but Roma didn’t exercise the buy option, largely due to Financial Fair Play restrictions, which have become especially strict for the Giallorossi after previous infractions.
Saelemaekers as backup to Christian Pulisic?
As a result, there’s a real chance he stays at Milan and becomes a useful asset for Massimiliano Allegri. He can play as a full-wing wide player, or in a more attacking or defensive role as needed. According to the club’s plans, he’ll be the backup to Pulisic, with Samuel Chukwueze on the way out as soon as an enticing offer comes in.
