Transfer rumours concerning Milan are showing no signs of stopping: the Rossoneri could be looking for a new defensive midfielder in anticipation of a possible departure for Luka Modrić at the end of the season. Among the profiles being closely monitored is also a promising Serie A talent. According to the website hooligan-soccer.com, Milan are also reportedly tracking Sassuolo midfielder Darryl Bakola. Juventus, Milan, Roma and Napoli are all said to be closely monitoring the performances of the Frenchman, who was born in 2007.
Sassuolo are reportedly not willing to open negotiations unless they receive an offer of at least €30 million. There are currently no concrete offers for Bakola, who has been performing very well under Aquilani.
Darryl Bakola's numbers against the Rossoneri,
These are the midfielder's statistics from the match against the Rossoneri, according to Sofascore:
- Accurate passes: 46/49 (94%)
- Touches: 62
- Dribbles (successful): 4 (3)
- Defensive contributions: 2
- Tackles (won): 2 (2)
- Balls recovered: 6
- Ground duels (won): 9 (6)
- Times dribbled past: 1
- Distance covered: 11.9 km
His tactical role: Amorim's backup for Yunus Musah
How could he fit into Ruben Amorim's Milan side? Darryl Bakola has the qualities required to play as one of the two defensive midfielders in front of the defence and could be an important alternative to Yunus Musah. At the moment, the Rossoneri are struggling to find another player with similar characteristics to the American. They lack another physically strong defensive midfielder who can press off the ball, run and look to recover possession throughout the match, as relayed via Pianeta Milan.
But it is not just about physicality: Darryl Bakola has excellent technical ability, great acceleration over short distances and the ability to drive forward with the ball at his feet. He also knows how to deal with opposition pressure very well: he can turn in tight spaces and drive forward with the ball at his feet, precisely the role Musah is performing in this Milan side. He can also play vertically and has good dribbling ability.
What can Bakola improve?
Certainly some of his defensive reading of the game and his consistency throughout the full 90 minutes. He is, however, undoubtedly a talent worth keeping an eye on, probably more for June than January. His value could increase further over the coming months, along with Sassuolo's asking price.
