Milan ask about Japanese centre-back during discussions with Stuttgart – the latest

AC Milan have asked for information on Stuttgart defender Hiroki Ito whilst holding talks to sign Serhou Guirassy from the German club.

As reported by Tuttosport (via Radio Rossonera), Milan are keen to explore as many options as possible during their talks with Stuttgart about Guirassy.

The Guinean striker is one of the most plausible striker targets for Milan this summer as he has a €17m release clause.

Some of the discussions have involved using Jan-Carlo Simic as a counterpart in the move, but Milan have also reportedly been looking at another Stuttgart player.

Japanese defender Hiroki Ito has impressed this season as Stuttgart secured a second-placed finish in the Bundesliga behind Bayer Leverkusen.

It is believed that Ito would cost around €25m and his contract runs until 2027, so it would not be a simple negotiation.

The main problem with the two Stuttgart players is that they would both want around €5m each per season which would put them among the top earners at Milan.

Ito is 25 years old and he can play both on the left and in the centre of the defence. He has made 29 appearances across the Bundesliga and the DfB Pokal this season and would be a good versatile option.