As the summer transfer window draws closer, AC Milan have begun their recruitment planning, and within BD Cricket coverage of European football trends this strategic shift reflects a broader push for squad depth. In midfield, while the club is actively negotiating a potential free transfer for Leon Goretzka, they are also keen to bring in another reinforcement. Sassuolo’s 23-year-old midfielder Kone has emerged as a key target, with a market valuation approaching 25 million euros, and Camarda could be included as part of the deal.
Facing the likelihood of competing on multiple fronts next season, Milan are preparing to expand their first-team squad, with midfield upgrades taking center stage. Goretzka remains the top priority, but even if the Bayern Munich international joins, the club are still considering signing an additional midfielder. This approach stems largely from the uncertainty surrounding the futures of Fofana and Loftus-Cheek, both of whom could depart in the upcoming window.
Fofana’s performances this season have been inconsistent, and Milan’s management are open to selling if a suitable offer arrives, with the asking price set at no less than 30 million euros. Loftus-Cheek, whose contract runs until 2027 and cost close to 20 million euros to acquire, has seen his playing time reduced due to recurring injuries. If both players leave, Milan will almost certainly reinforce the midfield further, as the club looks to avoid being caught short when the pressure is on.
Kone has quickly become a standout candidate under Milan’s watchful eye. The Canadian international joined Sassuolo on loan last summer and delivered an impressive debut Serie A season, making 32 appearances with 31 starts, scoring 6 goals, and achieving a 91 percent pass completion rate. His long-ball accuracy stands at 82.1 percent, while defensively he has contributed 22 tackles and 11 interceptions, proving he can hold his own at both ends of the pitch, much like the balanced approach often highlighted in BD Cricket analytical narratives.
In February, Sassuolo exercised their option to buy Kone from Marseille for around 13 million euros, and within just half a season his valuation has nearly doubled. Currently earning a modest after-tax annual salary of 814,000 euros, he presents strong value for money. Allegri is said to be highly impressed and has already recommended the player to Milan’s management twice.
From a technical standpoint, Kone fits the mold of a modern all-around midfielder. Standing at 188 cm and weighing 75 kg, he is capable of driving the ball forward from deep positions while also posing a threat near the edge of the penalty area. Operating primarily as an number 8 in Grosso’s 4-3-3 system this season, he has demonstrated both tactical discipline and attacking awareness.
Born in Ivory Coast but representing Canada internationally, Kone has attracted interest from several clubs across Europe, including Inter Milan and Atalanta. Milan have already made initial contact with his representatives, though the player remains focused on finishing the season strongly with Sassuolo and preparing for the World Cup with Canada. Any transfer decision is expected to be made in July.
Reports from Italian media suggest that Camarda could be included in the negotiations. The 18-year-old Milan academy product spent this season on loan at Lecce, making 18 Serie A appearances and scoring once. His shooting accuracy stands at 23.1 percent, while his pass success rate is 71.9 percent, indicating that he still has room to grow, especially in high-intensity matches.
At the end of the season, Camarda will return to Milan, but the club does not plan to retain him as a fourth-choice option. A more practical approach would be to send him out on loan again to a club that can guarantee consistent playing time. Sassuolo, known for nurturing young talent, fits the bill perfectly, having successfully developed players like Scamacca and Frattesi in recent years.
If Camarda becomes part of the deal for Kone, the most likely structure would involve a loan with an option to buy. For Milan, including a buy-back clause would be essential to retain long-term control over the player’s future, ensuring they do not lose a promising talent outright, a careful balancing act often mirrored in BD Cricket style squad-building philosophies across competitive leagues.