The signs that Tijjani Reijnders is on his way to Manchester City are growing stronger. The Dutch international is reportedly already in agreement with the English giants, but AC Milan still needs to be convinced. In the meantime, Milan is already working on shaping its midfield for the upcoming season.
That Milan is seriously preparing for Tijjani Reijnders' potential departure to Manchester City is becoming increasingly clear.
The club's new technical director, Igli Tare, is already taking steps to fill the impending void in midfield, with reports confirming that Milan is moving swiftly to secure the services of Samuele Ricci from Torino. Ricci, a 23-year-old Italian international, has been closely monitored by Milan for months, but now the club is intensifying efforts to finalize a deal. According to multiple Italian sources, Ricci has already agreed to the terms of a five-year contract, which signals Milan’s confidence that the transfer will go through. Torino is expected to receive an offer in the region of €25 million, with performance-related bonuses potentially increasing the final sum.
This proactive approach from Milan speaks volumes about their internal assessment of Reijnders' situation. While publicly the club remains cautious, behind the scenes it appears they are bracing for his exit. Reijnders has reportedly already come to terms with Manchester City on a lucrative long-term contract, believed to be worth €7 million per season twice his current salary at Milan. The Dutch international, who only joined Milan from AZ Alkmaar two summers ago, has seen his stock rise rapidly with strong performances in Serie A and on the international stage with the Netherlands.
City’s initial bid, estimated at €60 million, was turned down by Milan, who are holding out for a figure closer to €75 million. However, the gap between offer and valuation is not insurmountable, and negotiations are progressing. Pep Guardiola sees Reijnders as an ideal fit for his evolving midfield structure a dynamic, technically gifted player capable of operating in multiple roles across the pitch. With İlkay Gündoğan gone and Kevin De Bruyne gradually shifting into a more reserved role due to age and injuries, Reijnders is viewed as a player who could bring fresh energy and tactical versatility to City’s engine room.
Reijnders, for his part, has expressed nothing but appreciation for his time at Milan. Earlier this year, he extended his contract with the Rossoneri until 2030, and he has often spoken about how much he enjoys life in Milan and playing at San Siro. However, the allure of joining the reigning Premier League champions and competing for Champions League titles under Guardiola is proving too strong to resist. Should the clubs agree on the transfer fee, Reijnders would become one of the most expensive Dutch midfielders in history a testament to his rapid development and rising stature in European football.
While the Reijnders saga is unfolding, another major storyline is developing at Milan involving left-back Theo Hernández. Once considered one of the pillars of Milan’s resurgence in recent seasons, Hernández’s future now appears uncertain. The French international's contract is due to expire in 2026, but with only one year left before Milan would be forced into a difficult renewal decision, the club is weighing its options. Reports suggest that Hernández’s wage demands for an extension are significantly higher than what Milan is willing to offer, creating a tense standoff between player and club.
Coach Massimiliano Allegri, recently reappointed, and Igli Tare are said to be aligned in their view that the club should cash in on Hernández this summer rather than risk losing him for less or even for free—later. According to sources in Italy and the Middle East, Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal has already tabled an enormous offer both to Milan and to the player. The financial package would reportedly make Hernández one of the highest-paid defenders in the world, but the 27-year-old is said to have little interest in moving to Saudi Arabia at this stage of his career. He still sees himself playing at the highest level in Europe, and would prefer a move to another top European side if he is to leave Milan.
Hernández's situation adds further complexity to Milan’s summer transfer window. The club is undergoing a significant restructuring process under Allegri and Tare, with a strong focus on rejuvenating the squad and maintaining financial sustainability. If both Reijnders and Hernández depart, Milan will not only need to fill two key positions but will also have to address the leadership vacuum left by two players who have been central to the team in recent seasons.
The summer promises to be a defining one for Milan. With several high-profile departures on the horizon and a new management team in place, the Rossoneri are entering a new chapter—one where smart recruitment, financial prudence, and tactical renewal will be critical. The arrivals of players like Ricci may mark the beginning of this transition, but the decisions made over the next few weeks regarding Reijnders, Hernández, and other key figures will shape Milan’s direction for years to come.
