Saelemaekers expected to stay at Bologna – the numbers

Alexis Saelemaekers is expected to stay at Bologna on a permanent deal following a successful loan spell from AC Milan this season. 

As reported by Corriere dello Sport (via Milan News), it would take a surprising turn of events from this point for Saelemaekers to head back to Milan and continue playing.

He signed for Bologna on loan in the summer with an option for the Rossoblu to make the deal permanent for €9.5m.

The Belgian has enjoyed a positive season of regular starts under Thiago Motta and there is little reason to think he could force his way back into the Milan side if he returned to the club. The season did not start well, but he has grown as the campaign has progressed.

It may not be as simple as Bologna just paying the agreed fee to Milan because of the Rossoneri’s interest in Joshua Zirkzee.

It may be in the interests of both clubs to combine the two transfers and reach an agreement for both players.

Saelemaekers has played 26 times this season for the Rossoblu and has contributed four goals and three assists. He recently scored in the crucial win over AS Roma that got Bologna even closer to Champions League qualification.