AC Milan's Pursuit of a Polish Goal Machine: Lewandowski on the Rossoneri's Radar
After a disappointing Serie A campaign last season, finishing a lowly eighth, AC Milan are determined to reclaim their status as a dominant force in Italian football. The return of Allegri to the managerial helm signaled a fresh start, and the club's activity in the summer transfer window further fueled those ambitions. While key players like Reijnders, Theo, and Kessie departed, the arrival of established stars such as Modri?, Rabiot, Nkunku, Yaxar?, and Samuele Ricci significantly bolstered the squad, creating a palpable sense of optimism at the San Siro.
The early signs of this renewed vigor have been evident on the pitch. AC Milan have surged to the top of the Serie A table with an impressive record of four wins and one loss in their first five matches. A statement victory against Napoli, a thrilling 2-1 win in a top-of-the-table clash, underlined their title credentials.
However, despite the overall strength of the squad, a glaring need remains: a prolific, physically imposing center-forward. While Mexican international Santiago Giménez offers promise, his physical presence and goal-scoring efficiency are areas where Milan feel they could improve. During the summer, Milan explored options like Vlahovi?, H?jlund, and Boniface, but ultimately failed to secure a deal for any of these targets.
Now, the Rossoneri appear to have set their sights on a true heavyweight: Barcelona's Robert Lewandowski. According to reports from Italian journalist Cohen, AC Milan's sporting director, Tare, has already initiated contact with the Polish superstar's representatives to explore the possibility of a transfer next summer. Spanish media outlet Diario Sport has also suggested that AC Milan would be a leading contender for Lewandowski's signature if Barcelona decide against offering him a contract extension.
At 37 years of age, Lewandowski remains one of the most lethal strikers of the modern era. His illustrious career, highlighted by phenomenal spells at Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich, has yielded close to 700 goals. Since his €45 million move to Barcelona in the summer of 2022, the then-34-year-old has continued to shine, bagging an impressive 105 goals and 20 assists in 154 appearances for the Blaugrana. This season, despite starting only three of his eight appearances in all competitions, he has already found the net four times, showcasing that his scoring touch remains as sharp as ever.
Lewandowski's current contract with Barcelona runs until June 2026, with a substantial pre-tax salary of €20.83 million (approximately €13 million after tax). However, reports suggest that Barcelona's financial constraints, including stringent salary cap regulations, make a contract renewal unlikely.
From a tactical perspective, Lewandowski's current playing style perfectly aligns with the demands of Serie A. He excels as a focal point in the penalty area, relying on his strength, technical ability, and vast experience to create scoring opportunities. This approach suits the slower tempo and tactical nuances of Italian football. AC Milan have a history of successfully utilizing target men, most notably Zlatan Ibrahimovi? and Olivier Giroud. Ibrahimovi? was 39 during his second spell with the club, while Giroud arrived at the age of 35. Therefore, a move for Lewandowski, who will be 38 next summer, seems to fit Milan's preferred mold.
Furthermore, Milan's recent acquisitions of veteran midfielders Luka Modri? (40, free transfer) and Adrien Rabiot (30, €7 million) have significantly enhanced their midfield options, demonstrating a willingness to integrate experienced players into the squad. The prospect of Lewandowski joining forces with the likes of Christian Pulisic and Rafael Le?o in a potent attacking trident is undoubtedly enticing for Milan supporters.
However, the Rossoneri face stiff competition for Lewandowski's signature. Saudi Arabian clubs, including Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal, are reportedly prepared to offer staggering salaries in the region of €100 million per year. Major League Soccer teams are also rumored to be interested. While AC Milan cannot compete financially with these offers, their prestige as a European giant and the opportunity to compete in a high-level league could prove decisive factors for Lewandowski, allowing him to maintain his competitive edge.
Renowned football journalist Fabrizio Romano recently addressed the rumors linking Lewandowski to AC Milan, stating that the player remains focused on his duties with Barcelona. He also acknowledged that Milan could be a potential option in the future, but emphasized that it is too early to discuss any concrete transfer plans.
Will Robert Lewandowski ultimately grace the San Siro with his presence? Only time will tell. But the prospect of the Polish marksman leading the line for AC Milan is undoubtedly a tantalizing one for the Rossoneri faithful.
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