Rade Krunic's adventure at AC Milan is nearing its end. The Bosnian midfielder, who started the season as a starter in front of the defense, gradually lost his place over the weeks and fell completely off the radar.
It was a choice made by Stefano Pioli, who defended him for much of the season but then left him on the sidelines in the last month (his last appearance was against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League on November 28, followed by six consecutive times on the bench in both the league and Europe).
It's both a managerial decision and a personal issue, as the former Empoli player has had his mind elsewhere for some time.
According to what was reported by DAZN yesterday, despite Ismael Bennacer and Ruben Lofuts-Cheek being short of breath, Rade Krunic declined to enter the game. He hinted with a gesture that he had discomfort in his back and therefore wasn't in a condition to play.
Essentially, he feels excluded from the project and is pushing to leave, despite having a contract expiring in 2025 (with no negotiation for renewal). Milan has been clear, ready to green-light his transfer despite the thin cover in midfield (Pobega's injury and Bennacer's participation in the Africa Cup of Nations). However, Krunic's agents now need to fetch a concrete offer of no less than 4 million euros.
Fenerbahçe, who had attempted to sign him in the summer, is poised to make another move, and Lyon's interest remains alive. As of now, though, no written proposals have arrived at the Rossoneri club offices.
CEO Giorgio Furlani hopes that something will change in the coming days: Krunic, currently, is a financial burden, not an asset.
This was relayed via Calciomercato.com.