Atalanta manager confirms Ilicic has asked to leave amid Milan links

Milan are looking to sign a playmaker and a right-winger for the attacking trio but it seems they could solve that with just one signing, namely Josip Ilicic. The Slovenian, as has been confirmed, wants to leave Atalanta.

Ilicic has been linked with the Rossoneri several times this summer. Ahead of the game between Atalanta and Pordenone, manager Gian Piero Gasperini spoke about the 33-year-old’s future (via FootballItalia).

“We’ll see on Ilicic. At the end of last season, he manifested the desire to try new experiences. He did well in training, he never complained, so he’s preparing to find a club that can help him play regularly,” he stated.

“I respect his request to leave, there’s still a month left in the transfer window. That is the intention, he is preparing well, but there aren’t any particular movements right now.”

According to Daniele Longo, not only has Ilicic made it clear that he wants to leave, but he has also given priority to Milan. Given the costs of the operation, it seems the player could end up at the club this summer.

In the meantime, the Rossoneri are preparing to take on Nice this evening, hoping to start the pre-season tour with a bang. Of course, they have already faced Pro Sesto and Modena but the upcoming games will be different.