AC Milan Target Defensive Reinforcements After Leao Departure

AC Milan are continuing their efforts to strengthen their defence ahead of the September 1 summer transfer deadline, with the Rossoneri turning their attention to several defensive targets after officially parting ways with Rafael Leao.

Milan confirmed Leao’s departure on Sunday morning, with the Portugal international joining Galatasaray in a deal worth €38 million in guaranteed fees, plus additional bonuses that could increase the overall value of the transfer.

The winger’s exit, however, has not brought Milan’s summer business to an end. The club are still working on several potential departures while looking to strengthen key positions before the transfer window closes.

Santiago Gimenez is reportedly close to leaving San Siro for Porto, while Youssouf Fofana and Fikayo Tomori have also been told that they are not part of Ruben Amorim’s plans for the 2026/27 campaign and are therefore searching for new clubs.

According to Calciomercato.com, Milan remain keen to add another centre-back and a new wing-back to their squad. One of the names on their shortlist is Manchester United defender Leny Yoro, a player already familiar to Amorim from their time together at Old Trafford.

The Portuguese coach knows Yoro’s qualities and personality well, having previously worked with the 20-year-old defender. That relationship could potentially become an important factor if Milan attempt to bring him to San Siro.

Yoro’s representation is another element that could help facilitate the deal. The France international is managed by Jorge Mendes, whose close relationship with Milan has already played a role in several significant transfers involving the club this summer, including the reported arrivals of Goncalo Ramos, Diego Moreira and Mario Gila.

Yoro is currently valued at around €50 million, making him one of the more expensive options on Milan’s defensive shortlist. The Rossoneri are also considering Sporting CP centre-back Goncalo Inacio, whose valuation is reportedly in the region of €40 million to €50 million.

Milan’s defensive plans, however, extend beyond the centre-back position. The club are also searching for greater depth at left-back, with Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde among the names under consideration.

The Spain international is reportedly valued between €40 million and €50 million and could provide the attacking threat Milan are looking for on the left flank. Balde’s ability to push forward and contribute offensively from wide areas is considered a particularly attractive quality for the Rossoneri as they seek to strengthen that position.

Manchester City have also reportedly offered Rayan Ait-Nouri as another potential option. The Algeria international is among the left-backs being evaluated by Milan as the club assess the best possible solution before the transfer window shuts.

Time, however, is becoming Milan’s biggest concern. With the deadline fast approaching, the Rossoneri must decide which targets to prioritise while simultaneously managing a number of potential departures.

After losing Leao and facing the possible exits of several other important players, Milan need to ensure Amorim has enough depth and quality to cope with the demands of the 2026/27 season. The final days of the transfer window could therefore prove decisive for the Rossoneri, with defensive reinforcements now firmly at the top of their agenda.