MN: Italian duo and Mr. X - Milan's defender pursuit likely to drag into final week

"By now it's clear to everyone that Massimiliano Allegri would like to close the transfer window with a defensive addition to complete his squad. According to MilanNews, Allegri wants a a targeted reinforcement to raise the level of the defence and give the team greater solidity. The goal is to find a reliable centre-back, capable of making an impact right away and leading the line in key moments of the season."

"The first name on Allegri's list remains Federico Gatti, a player the Milan coach previously worked with at Juventus. He is considered ideal due to his physicality, versatility and prior knowledge of the manager's defensive mechanisms. The deal, however, is far from simple. Neither the player nor Luciano Spalletti have reportedly given the green light to such a move, despite persistent talk of a possible swap potentially involving Ruben Loftus-Cheek."

"Milan might only make a move for the defender in the final week of the transfer window, after the trip to Rome, when the law of supply and demand could bring about the emergence of a "Mister X." Allegri wants an experienced defender, a true 'professor of the department', and not just a bodt The vulnerability of the department is shown by the fact Strahinja Pavlovic is doubtful for the Como match given the nine stitches he had in his head after a collision in Florence."

Massimiliano Allegri aims to add a defensive reinforcement before the transfer window shuts to increase AC Milan's defensive solidity. Federico Gatti is the primary target due to his physicality, versatility and familiarity with Allegri's defensive approach. The move faces complications because neither Gatti nor Luciano Spalletti have reportedly approved the transfer, amid swap speculation involving Ruben Loftus-Cheek. Diego Coppola is an alternative target, viewed as a young but valuable option despite limited starts at Brighton. Milan may delay action until the final week when a "Mister X" could emerge. Defensive vulnerability is underscored by Strahinja Pavlovic's stitches and doubt over his availability, while Fikayo Tomori returns from suspension to help restore balance.

Read at SempreMilan