AC Milan have reportedly initiated talks with Lille over the signing of in-demand midfielder Boubakary Soumare, reports say.
Soumare has long been figuring as one of the most talented midfielders in Ligue 1. Since making a senior breakthrough in 2017, the 21-year-old has gone one to register 70 appearances in all competitions for Lille.
The up-and-coming box-to-box midfielder has ended up on the transfer radars of Manchester United and Arsenal. But, the Premier League giants could miss out on signing the French starlet.
Despite a genuine interest from several other English sides, Milan’s good relationship with Lille gives them an upper hand.
As reported by the SempreMilan, the Rossoneri have launched an official bid for Soumare worth €25million plus a substantial percentage of a future resale.
A breakdown in talks with Chelsea over Tiemoue Bakayoko has, in fact, prompted Milan’s efforts to sign Soumare.
The two are very much alike, although the Lille starlet represents a younger and cheaper alternative.
Bakayoko had initially been the top midfield target for the Lombardy-based outfit. Their history together made the hierarchy think the 26-year-old is what they need.
However, Chelsea are playing hardball with Milan, as they look to recoup the £40million they forked out to sign the Frenchman.
Paolo Maldini was, on the other hand, looking to sign Bakayoko on loan with an option to buy.
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