Dodged bullets or obvious regrets: How Milan’s summer striker targets are doing

AC Milan were linked with several strikers during the summer transfer window but failed to sign a typical number nine as requested by manager Massimiliano Allegri, opting instead to bring in Christopher Nkunku.

Nkunku, while capable of playing as a striker, is more effective in a creative role behind the forward, focusing on creating chances rather than being a primary scorer. Allegri had envisioned a physical, confident striker who could operate in the box and score goals, but such players are difficult to acquire at a reasonable cost. Milan explored various options but did not secure any striker fitting this profile.

Among the players Milan might have missed out on, Dusan Vlahovic was a prominent target, with negotiations stalling due to his high salary demands; he has since scored four goals and provided an assist in eight games for his current club, often from the bench. Rasmus Hojlund, who moved to Napoli instead, has impressed with four goals in six matches across Serie A and the Champions League. Mateo Retegui was considered but deemed too expensive at around €60 million, and he has scored three goals for Al Qadisiyah this season.

In contrast, some linked players have not performed exceptionally, such as Jean-Philippe Mateta, whose connections to Milan were never strong; he has scored two goals in seven Premier League appearances, which is decent but not as standout as in previous seasons.