AC Milan are planning to bolster their midfield options in the January transfer window, with Chelsea duo Cesare Casadei and Carney Chukwuemeka emerging as key targets, Soccernet.football reports.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Italian giants are eyeing reinforcements following Ismael Bennacer’s long-term injury, which has left a significant void in their midfield.
Milan’s sporting director, Geoffrey Moncada, is reportedly working on deals to strengthen the squad, particularly in midfield, where Tijjani Reijnders and Youssouf Fofana have been overstretched due to Bennacer’s absence.
The club hopes to bring in fresh faces to ease the workload and avoid burnout during the crucial second half of the season.
Casadei, who recently expressed his childhood admiration for AC Milan and idolised Kaká, is one of the prime candidates.
The former Inter Milan youngster, now at Chelsea, stated, “As a child, Kaká was my idol and I supported Milan,” adding a sentimental layer to his potential move.
Casadei’s versatility as a box-to-box midfielder makes him an attractive option for Milan, who are seeking a dynamic presence in their midfield.
Chukwuemeka, another Chelsea talent, is also on Milan’s radar.
The 20-year-old midfielder has struggled for consistent playing time at Stamford Bridge and could be open to a loan move with an option to buy as per CalcioStyle.
Milan had previously been linked with Chukwuemeka in the summer, and his ability to deputise for Reijnders makes him a strong candidate.
While the winter transfer window will present challenges, AC Milan are determined to make strategic additions without overspending, keeping within a budget of €20-30 million.