Yahoo Sports Journalist ‘97%’ sure Ricci will join Milan in January – the actual situation
The January transfer window can be one that springs surprises, and the idea of Samuele Ricci joining AC Milan is once again being spoken about.
Above all, the rumours have resurfaced because of some comments during the live broadcast of Cronache di Spogliatoio, when journalist Marco Cattaneo stated that Ricci could even start the derby for Milan against Inter.
“This double Elmas-Casadei negotiation really seems like the prelude, and I’m told it’s very likely, of Ricci’s transfer to Milan as early as January,” Cattaneo declared.
“It’s the first time I’ve gone so far. And I’ll say another: in this negotiation, at that point, Milan could also give Jovic to Torino. At the Rossoneri, and I’ve read this, one between Lucca and Gimenez could arrive.
“Ricci-Milan percentage? 97%, I’m telling you he could be on the pitch in the derby: without Fofana, Ricci and Walker will play.”
The truth
As our colleagues at SempreMilan.it report, Milan’s interest in Ricci is nothing new and the directors had intensified its contacts with Urbano Cairo to try to close the deal as quickly as possible, even in the winter.
However, Torino have so far resisted, postponing the possible sale of their midfield jewel until next summer. Milan’s desire to have Ricci immediately is clear, but the Granata do not want to lose such an important player now, and they sense a summer auction.
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Complicating the negotiations is also the interest of other teams. Manchester City and Inter are closely monitoring Ricci’s situation, ready to enter the race if the right opportunity presents itself.
However, Milan seem to be in pole position, which is because of the player’s openness to the move and the management working in advance to try and secure a preferential lane.
The double signings of Eljif Elmas and Cesare Casadei could be seen as a precursor to a departure, but they have been pursuing a midfielder for a while now and it is likely they are simply seeking cover.
Also, the economic aspect of the matter is that Milan have decided that if they are to make a January investment it will be on a striker like Gimenez. Thus, the idea of spending north of €50-60m in the current window seems like fantasy.
