AC Milan abandon Rashford pursuit, advance Kyle Walker deal

AC Milan have chosen to prioritise signing Manchester City veteran Kyle Walker over Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford, according to L’Equipe.

Milan’s initial negotiations for Rashford were put on hold due to the Italian Football Federation’s (FIGC) regulation limiting the signing of British players.

This forced the club into a pivotal decision – focus on an ageing right-back or gamble on a potentially elite forward to revitalise their attack.

However, Milan no longer need Rashford after Noah Okafor’s move to RB Leipzig fell through for failing his medical.

Milan manager Sergio Conceicao’s tactical setup, which often relies on a two-striker system, seemed tailor-made for the Manchester United star. But with Milan struggling to agree a package financially, the pursuit of Rashford has now been shelved.

Walker deal gains momentum

The right-back position has been a long-standing concern for Milan. Club captain Davide Calabria is subpar, and last summer’s acquisition of Emerson Royal from Tottenham Hotspur has been a costly mistake.

The Brazilian has failed to deliver on both ends of the pitch, leaving Milan exposed defensively and stagnant offensively.

Walker has emerged as a prime target. Per some reports, Milan have agreed personal terms and the deal is progressing quickly.

While some question whether the Englishman can adapt to the physical demands of Serie A, his waning pace in the slower Italian top flight could make him a short-term solution for Milan’s right flank.

Milan’s move for Walker has raised eyebrows, especially with younger, Serie A-proven talents making waves. Fans are concerned that the club is bypassing promising long-term options in favour of a player nearing the end of his career.

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The current management has come under fire for poor decisions in the transfer market and this Walker deal looks like another looming one.

They have failed to address the right-back and defensive midfield situation – areas where they need reinforcement. When they entered the market, they orchestrated baffling deals like the Alvaro Morata, Emerson and Tammy Abraham signings last summer.