AC Milan, the summer of the big signing up front: all the names on the board’s table
The offices at Via Aldo Rossi are already buzzing with activity. The summer of 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most important in recent years for AC Milan, with one clear and unavoidable objective: finding the right centre-forward to complete Massimiliano Allegri’s tactical project. The Rossoneri management knows it well, and behind-the-scenes work has been underway for some time.
Why this is the defining summer for AC Milan
After a first season under the Livorno-born coach that showed encouraging signs — with a solid squad structure and several players on the rise — a gap in the attacking department remains evident. Milan need a top-class striker, a player capable of guaranteeing goals consistently and adding a new dimension to the team’s attacking play. It’s the missing piece to make the definitive leap in quality and kick-start a winning cycle.
Dusan Vlahović: the hottest name, but at a steep price
The first profile in the management’s notebook is Dusan Vlahović. The Serbian striker’s contract with Juventus is expiring, a circumstance that makes the deal interesting in terms of transfer fees. However, the main obstacle remains his high wages: figures between 7 and 9 million euros net per season are being discussed, plus a substantial signing-on fee for his entourage. These numbers have already deterred Milan in the past. The 2000-born forward has shown his qualities in Serie A, but a lack of consistency — both in terms of goals and fitness — during his time in Turin raises legitimate doubts about the overall investment. Nevertheless, among the top strikers available on the market, the Serbian international remains a concrete and reliable option for Italian football.
Moise Kean: the ideal profile, with some reservations
Another name circulating strongly is Moise Kean, coming off an excellent spell at Fiorentina. The Italian international would represent, from a technical standpoint, an ideal addition for Allegri’s system: physically imposing, skilled in hold-up play and with a keen eye for goal. The costs would be lower compared to the Vlahović option. However, the management are reportedly carefully evaluating certain off-pitch aspects — the player’s numerous side activities, from music to fashion — and above all some recurring fitness concerns that have affected his career. A profile to be examined carefully, but one that could prove a shrewd signing if managed in the right environment.
Raspadori and Castro: the Italian alternatives
There is no shortage of alternative options. Giacomo Raspadori, Napoli and Italy forward, is an intriguing name thanks to his versatility and deep knowledge of Italian football, developed between Sassuolo and the Neapolitan club. According to some reports, Milan have already had exploratory contacts with his entourage in the past. The former Sassuolo man divides the Rossoneri fanbase: some see him as a useful attacking wildcard, while others would prefer a more out-and-out goalscorer.
Finally, the name of Santiago Castro, the young Argentine striker from Bologna who has been impressing in Serie A this season, is also being discussed. An exciting prospect, though one who still needs careful assessment to determine whether he is ready for the step up to a top club.
Allegri wants a box striker: the profile being sought
Beyond individual names, the fundamental question is: what type of centre-forward does Allegri want? Indications filtering out from Milanello point to a player capable of commanding the penalty area with authority, holding the ball up with his back to goal and linking play with teammates. But a more dynamic profile, one able to roam across the attacking front and act as a link with midfield, has not been ruled out either. Choosing the right profile will be crucial in defining Milan’s attacking identity for next season.
The board at work: now is the time for the right move
The ball is now in the Rossoneri management’s court. At Via Aldo Rossi, work continues daily to identify the best solution, with full awareness that this summer leaves no room for error. Milan have all the tools to land a major signing: the structure is in place, the tactical project is clear, and the desire to return to the very top is stronger than ever. Rossoneri fans can look to the future with optimism: the summer of 2026 has all the makings of a turning point.
