As widely expected, Milan are about to complete the first deal to replenish their defense, recalling Matteo Gabbia early from a loan spell at Villarreal. The youngster departed last summer to play more. While he wasn’t a full-time starter, he logged 13 appearances in La Liga and the Europa League combined, getting the nod on 11 occasions. He recently sat out two tilts because of a concussion. He’ll arrive in Italy late on Tuesday and take the medicals on Wednesday.
Per Marca, the Rossoneri won’t pay any compensation. El Submarino Amarillo hadn’t disbursed anything to add him. The two sides had been splitting his modest wages.
Gabbia is a Milan product and previously featured 51 times with them in a backup role. He spent a year at Lucchese in the past. The brass is also seeking another man considering Fikayo Tomori, Malick Thiaw, and Pierre Kalulu’s simultaneous thigh injuries, Corriere dello Sport relays.
The Rossoneri’s shortlist comprises Aston Villa’s Clement Lenglet, who’s on loan from Barcelona, West Ham’s Thilo Kehrer, Bournemouth’s Lloyd Kelly, and Brest’s Lilian Brassier.
Our Take on Milan and Gabbia
While he’s not a top defender, it’s a low-hanging fruit. They will likely make another addition, but if things break their way for once this campaign, they might be able to avoid it. It hinges on the returning center-back faring well early, Simone Kjaer staying healthy, and Jan-Carlo Simic becoming a real option. It’s a lot of ‘ifs,’ but they have have bought some time to evaluate.
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