AC Milan make contact with Villarreal winger Samuel Chukwueze

AC Milan have initiated contacts with Villarreal winger Samuel Chukwueze ahead of a potential summer move, according to Sky Sport Italia.

Milan are scouring the market for a right-winger, with Brahim Diaz set to return to Real Madrid, while Alexis Saelemakers has also been linked with an exit due to the lack of starting role.

Rossoneri had Marco Asensio as a high-profile signing on their wishlist, but he has reached an agreement to join Ligue 1 giants Paris Saint-Germain.

Milan have turned their attention towards Chukwueze, who is one of the talented prospects in La Liga.

The Nigerian winger accumulated six goals and five assists in the recently-concluded La Liga campaign, with his best performance coming against Real Madrid at Santiago Bernabeu, where he scored a sensational brace to pull off a comeback victory.

The 24-year-old is also one of the top-most dribblers in the Spanish top flight and a great ball carrier.

Chukwueze remains one of the most sought-after youngsters in the market, and Real Madrid’s interest in him is a further testament to his potential.

Milan are also expected to face competition from Premier League clubs Newcastle United and Aston Villa for the Super Eagles star.

Moreover, the transfer fee could prove to be a sticking point for Milan, with the Yellow Submarine demanding a hefty figure worth around €80 million.

It remains to be seen what their sporting direction will be following the departures of renowned directors Paolo Maldini and Ricky Massara.

Their exits have also halted Milan’s pursuit of Daichi Kamada for the time being.

Stefano Pioli’s men are also keeping tabs on free agent Marcus Thuram but are behind PSG in the transfer race.

RB Salzburg striker Noah Okafor continues to be a top target, with Milan looking to bring in a new centre-forward following the exit of Zlatan Ibrahimovic.