Venezia sporting director Filippo Antonelli has confirmed that AC Milan attempted to sign midfielder Hans Nicolussi Caviglia earlier this year. The Rossoneri were exploring options to reinforce their midfield after the departure of Tijjani Reijnders, and Nicolussi Caviglia was on their shortlist.
AC Milan’s Midfield Search After Reijnders Exit
At the end of May, AC Milan faced the challenge of rebuilding their midfield following Tijjani Reijnders’ transfer to Manchester City. The club’s management wanted to bring in more Italian players, an idea supported by Igli Tare and Massimiliano Allegri.
Although Samuele Ricci eventually joined the squad, several reports linked Milan with Nicolussi Caviglia after his impressive season at Venezia. His performances made him one of the most promising young Italian midfielders available on the market.
Venezia Rejected Milan’s Offer
Venezia’s relegation meant retaining Nicolussi Caviglia would be difficult, but Milan’s approach came earlier. According to Antonelli, the Rossoneri made an attempt to sign him during the January transfer window.
“We rejected an offer from Milan for him in January. Then came Fiorentina, who are competing in European competitions,” Antonelli revealed to SportMediaset (via MilanPress).
The director added that while the club wanted to keep the player, holding onto him amid strong offers could have harmed both Venezia and the midfielder’s development. Eventually, a decision was made that benefited all parties.
Why Nicolussi Caviglia Was in Demand
At just 24 years old, Nicolussi Caviglia has already shown maturity and technical ability in Serie A. His versatility in midfield, combined with his vision and passing range, made him a valuable target for top Italian clubs like Milan and Fiorentina.
For Venezia, his departure was inevitable given the circumstances, but the club aimed to maximize the value of his transfer while respecting the player’s career ambitions.
What’s Next for Milan and Nicolussi Caviglia?
While AC Milan missed out on signing Nicolussi Caviglia, the Rossoneri have reinforced their midfield with Ricci and continue to monitor Italian talents for the future. As for Nicolussi Caviglia, his move to Fiorentina offers him a chance to compete at a higher level and showcase his abilities in European competitions.
The January saga highlights how Milan are actively reshaping their midfield and could return for similar targets in upcoming transfer windows.
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