Amorim’s Hard Line: A Clear Separation
The strategy adopted by Ruben Amorim towards players outside his plans at AC Milan is becoming increasingly clear. Christopher Nkunku, Fikayo Tomori, Youssouf Fofana, Bryan Odogwu and Warren Bondo continue to arrive at Milanello on the same schedule as the rest of the squad, change in the same dressing room, and train for the same amount of time — but when it comes to actual training, they are directed to a completely separate pitch, overseen by a coach appointed specifically for this group by the club.
The message is unambiguous: these players have no place in Amorim’s plans for the 2025-26 season, and AC Milan wants them to find a new club as soon as possible. It is a tough call, but one the Portuguese manager has made personally, with the full backing of the board.
Tomori, Fofana, Odogwu and Bondo: Departures Expected
Among those named, Fikayo Tomori is perhaps the most emotionally charged case. The English centre-back was one of the heroes of Milan’s Serie A title win in 2022, and he will always hold a special place in supporters’ hearts. But football is ultimately decided by tactics and technical merit, and the club’s decision is final: Tomori is available for transfer.
The same applies to Youssouf Fofana, the French midfielder who no longer fits the new project, and to youngsters Odogwu and Bondo, also included in the group training apart. The list of players available for sale has grown following the summit with Cardinale, and Milan is now determined to capitalise.
Nkunku: Four Clubs in the Race, Barcelona Also Interested
The hottest transfer story involves Christopher Nkunku. The French attacking midfielder, who joined on loan from Chelsea, is firmly on the market and in recent hours his agents have held talks with representatives from several European clubs. There are currently four concrete suitors in the running:
- Newcastle United and Aston Villa from the Premier League
- Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig from the Bundesliga
And as if that weren’t enough, Barcelona have also been reported to have made enquiries about the player’s availability. Strong competition works in Milan’s favour as they seek a permanent sale rather than a loan with an option to buy — a formula that has historically failed to deliver definitive outcomes for the Rossoneri.
Milan Want Sales, Not Loans
The club’s stance is firm: the goal is to find permanent solutions. Loan deals with purchase options have too often ended without a transfer being completed, leaving Milan with unresolved situations at the end of the season. The board has learned from experience and this time intends to close matters cleanly and decisively.
The Nkunku situation is closely linked to that of Santiago Giménez, who is reportedly close to a move to Porto on loan. The Rossoneri’s transfer picture is becoming clearer, with the club working on multiple fronts simultaneously to trim the squad and free up resources for new signings.
Time is of the essence, but the direction is clear: Amorim and the board want a lean, motivated squad built around a coherent project. The players outside that project know it — and now it is up to them to find their best way forward.
