After Tomori, AC Milan want second defender from Chelsea

Fikayo Tomori has joined AC Milan on a permanent transfer but the Rossoneri are looking at Chelsea again for reinforcements.

AC Milan have completed the signing of Fikayo Tomori on a permanent deal. The Rossoneri have spent 28 million euros to purchase the 23-year-old English defender that has become a key player for Stefano Pioli, despite his late arrival at the San Siro.

But Tomori may not be the only Chelsea centre back to join Milan. Journalist Carlo Pellegatti reports that during talks for Tomori, Chelsea and AC Milan also discussed the future of Antonio Rudiger.

The 28-year-old centre back has been identified by the management as a perfect replacement for Alessio Romagnoli. The AC Milan captain has not renewed his contract and is expected to join a new club this summer. However, Paolo Maldini wants to replace Romagnoli with a defender that is immediately ready to challenge for a starting spot and Rudiger is familiar with Serie A.

The German star was a revelation at Roma where he played for two seasons before his €35 million switch to Chelsea. It was AC Milan sporting director, Frederic Massara, who brought him at Roma and who is pushing for his return in Italy.

Despite playing a key role in Chelsea’s Champions League victory, Rudiger has not been a regular starter for the last two seasons. His contract situation is favorable for the Rossoneri because the 28-year-old becomes a free agent in one year. Nevertheless, with the arrival of Thomas Tuchel on the bench, Rudiger’s career has been revitalized and the German coach may block his sale. 

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