Trimming the Rossoneri ranks
AC Milan head coach Ruben Amorim has signaled a decisive shift in the club’s personnel strategy, publicly confirming that the current squad size of over 30 players is unsustainable. As the team prepares for the 2026-27 Serie A campaign, which kicks off in just over two weeks against Ignazio Abate’s Torino, Amorim has initiated an assessment phase to identify players who fall outside his immediate tactical plans.
The primary objective for the club’s management is to balance the squad while ensuring that younger players receive adequate playing time. Young defender David Odogu, acquired last year from Wolfsburg for a reported €7 million plus €3 million in bonuses, is the first significant departure in this process. Having made only two appearances last season, the club has determined that his development will be best served through a season-long loan.
Mainz move for Odogu
Talks are currently advanced with German Bundesliga side Mainz, which is the frontrunner to secure the 2006-born defender. While Schalke 04 and Anderlecht have expressed interest, negotiations between Milan and Mainz center on a loan agreement that includes an option to buy. The club views this as a vital step to protecting their investment and allowing Odogu to gain regular competitive minutes that he cannot yet find at the San Siro.
Midfield evaluations
The overhaul extends to the midfield, where Amorim is making specific assessments. According to reporting from Matteo Moretto, Yunus Musah is expected to remain at the club, with the manager expressing appreciation for the American’s qualities. Conversely, Samuele Ricci and Youssouf Fofana have been identified as potential departures. The club is open to offers for both players, with Atalanta specifically showing interest in Ricci.
The defensive stability also appears to be settling, as Pervis Estupinan is increasingly likely to stay in Milan. This follows Aston Villa’s decision to pivot toward Atletico Madrid’s Ruggeri, effectively removing a key suitor from the market for the Milan defender.