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By: Abiodun Adewale.
AC Milan’s move for Samuel Chukwueze is heading for the rocks following the emergence of Porto centre-forward Medhi Taremi as a potential alternative to Atletico Madrid’s Alvaro Morata for the Milan attack, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
The Nigerian forward has been linked with a move to the Italian giants for some time now but the deal has not seen the light of the day despite interest from the player and Villarreal.
Villarreal president, Fernando Roig, last week said he was not convinced about Milan’s interest in the player despite the Rossoneri reportedly offering €25m, including add-ons for the Nigerian winger. It is understood that the Yellow Submarines want their €35m valuation to be met.
Meanwhile, Christian Pulisic is on his way from Chelsea, but the Rossoneri also want more reinforcements to the front line this summer. Morata had been mentioned as one of the primary candidates, although there is confusion over what exactly his status is.
According to Sky Sport Italia, the release clause in his contract is worth €12m, but reports in Spain continue to assure it is closer to €20m.
But due to Milan’s inability to use the ‘growth decree’ to get a 50 per cent tax discount on his salary, it makes him a more expensive option than originally hoped, so La Gazzetta dello Sport and Sportitalia suggest the club is instead looking towards FC Porto striker Taremi.
The Iran international turns 31 later this month and has also been linked with Roma and Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal.
His contract with Porto expires in June 2024, so he would be available for a relatively affordable price.
However, there is another problem, specifically he is a non-EU player and Milan only have one slot left in the squad. If Taremi takes it, then they cannot sign Chukwueze from Villarreal while they have also identified Gustav Tang Isaksen from Midtjylland as an alternative to the Nigerian.