On the day Theo Hernandez bid a controversial farewell to Milan and officially became a new Al Hilal player, the Rossoneri accelerated their pursuit of his replacement, Archie Brown. Negotiations with Gent are ongoing, and the goal is to overtake Fenerbahce, who until a few hours ago believed they had the player secured for a fee between €8 and €9 million. Last night, there were frequent contacts between Italy and Belgium, with the aim of closing the deal quickly to prevent Fenerbahce from making a new bid or other clubs from entering the race.
Milan wants the Englishman to travel with the squad in eight days for the tour in Asia and Australia, especially since they also need to sign a right-back (Doué is more favored than Pubill). In short, the defense needs to be completed as soon as possible to allow Allegri to work with the full group and transition from the three-man backline used at the end of last season to a four-man defense.
However, work on the backline does not stop the activity in other areas of the pitch, particularly in attack, where the search continues for a striker to alternate with Santiago Gimenez, who will arrive at Milanello starting August 4, after his post-Gold Cup vacation. Nicolas Jackson is emerging as a strong candidate—at least on par with Vlahovic and Boniface.
Archie Brown overtakes rivals
Born in Birmingham, Brown turned 23 in May and came through the youth ranks at Derby County before moving to Switzerland to join Lausanne, with whom he earned promotion in 2022–23. He then moved to Gent, where he established himself thanks to his physique (190 cm) and pace. He became a starter and in the 2024–25 season made 46 appearances, scoring 3 goals and providing 6 assists.
Now, he feels the time has come to change teams and try his luck in one of Europe’s top five leagues. The Belgians are trying to stir up an auction and are asking for €10 million; Milan are offering slightly less but can count on Brown’s preference, as his contract expires in 2027. The Englishman is trying to steer the deal in Milan’s favor, and having him on board is important for sporting director Tare.
The Brown operation is certainly less expensive than that for Girona’s Gutierrez, but competition for the 2002-born Gent player remains high. That’s why the Rossoneri are trying to close the deal as soon as possible—possibly even today.
The focus will then shift to the right flank, where Guéla Doué of Strasbourg is highly rated. Milan plan to submit a new proposal soon, one higher than the previous €15 million offer that was rejected. Pubill remains a valid alternative, but the Spaniard from Almeria does not currently appear to be the first choice. That spot belongs to Doué, brother of PSG star Desiré. Vanderson of Monaco has also been scouted, but given Monaco’s asking price, he is currently considered out of reach.
Nicolas Jackson gaining momentum
As mentioned, full-backs are Milan’s current priority, but a major signing in attack is also on the agenda—a striker to partner with Gimenez. Nicolas Jackson, the 2001-born Senegalese forward from Chelsea, has become a front-runner alongside Juventus’ Dusan Vlahovic and Nigeria’s Victor Boniface.
Jackson, signed by Chelsea in 2023 for €37 million from Villarreal, initially seemed a key figure for the Blues. However, he has fallen out of favor—not so much for his goal output (just 3 in 81 appearances in London), but due to two red cards he received late in the season: one against Newcastle in the Premier League and another at the Club World Cup against Flamengo. He’s viewed as somewhat undisciplined, especially in crucial moments, which is why coach Maresca has requested investments in two other number nines: new signings Delap and Joao Pedro.
Jackson now has his bags packed, and his entourage is actively seeking a favorable destination. Chelsea are asking for at least €45 million, but given their incoming transfer activity, the striker is now considered out of the club’s project. Yesterday, an important contact was made through intermediaries. Milan have already made their interest known, and next week, when Chelsea executives return from the U.S., talks will be deepened. Not being in a rush allows Furlani and Tare to negotiate on multiple fronts to secure the best deal possible.
Further behind the likes of Vlahovic, Boniface, and Jackson are Patrik Schick—also at Bayer Leverkusen like Boniface—and Tolu Arokodare of Genk, who has been offered to Milan.
Pietro Terracciano
Finally, the backup goalkeeper situation. Sportiello is expected to leave Milanello, and for his replacement, the leading name is Pietro Terracciano of Fiorentina—especially as Perin (Milan’s preferred option) wants regular playing time.
Source: La Gazzetta dello Sport
