Newly appointed AC Milan manager Ruben Amorim is working to strengthen his attack with a proven goalscorer this summer and has reportedly identified Paris Saint-Germain misfit Goncalo Ramos as his primary target up front.
Amorim's return to management
Amorim had been out of work following his dismissal at Manchester United in early January, with his turbulent reign at Old Trafford halted after only 14 months. A return to the Primeira Liga was mooted, but the 41-year-old rejected Benfica before setting his sights on the San Siro. On Tuesday, an official statement confirmed that Amorim had signed a two-year contract with the Serie A giants, with an option for a further season.
Amorim takes over from Massimiliano Allegri, who was sacked last month after a disappointing campaign in which the Rossoneri finished fifth and failed to secure Champions League qualification. There is enormous pressure on Amorim to hit the ground running, and Milan's hierarchy are prepared to support their new manager.
Transfer targets
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Amorim's arrival has signaled a 'transfer shift' at Milan. The ex-United and Sporting boss has 'already outlined his ideas' in discussions with club bosses. While Amorim is satisfied with the squad he inherited, he would 'naturally be delighted' to bring in reinforcements.
PSG striker Ramos has played a bit-part role under Luis Enrique over the last two years, and his agent, Jorge Mendes, has not ruled out a summer transfer. Ramos indicated he was happy in Paris last year, but his peripheral position means he 'might have had a change of heart', despite PSG's success. Amorim is 'hoping' this is the case and is 'dreaming' of landing Ramos, ready to welcome him 'with open arms'.
An initial loan deal with an option or obligation to buy could be the most workable option for Milan, given PSG have placed a €40 million price tag on Ramos. PSG signed Ramos from Benfica for €65 million plus €15 million in bonuses three years ago, seeing off strong competition from Manchester United. Ramos has scored 45 goals in 131 appearances for PSG and is under contract until June 2028.
In central midfield, Manuel Ugarte and Morten Hjulmand, who worked closely with Amorim, are named as potential targets. Sporting's Goncalo Inacio has been identified as Milan's 'preferred choice' at centre-back. However, Milan would need to sell before entering the market, with wantaway forward Rafael Leao viewed as the best solution to raise funds. There is also uncertainty surrounding the futures of Luka Modric, Mike Maignan, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, and Youssouf Fofana.
Amorim's statement
'There are ambitions that stay with you throughout your career and coaching AC Milan has always been one of mine,' Amorim told Milan's official website. 'I know exactly what this club means: history, prestige and an extraordinary fanbase around the world. It is a challenge I embrace with pride and enthusiasm, fully aware of what these colours represent. I can't wait to get started and to experience every day the passion that drives AC Milan.'
