Newly appointed AC Milan manager Ruben Amorim is working to strengthen his attack with a proven goalscorer this summer and has reportedly identified Paris Saint-Germain misfit Goncalo Ramos as his number one target up front.
Amorim's Return to Management
Amorim had been out of a job following his dismissal at Manchester United in early January, with the Portuguese's turbulent reign at Old Trafford brought to a halt after only 14 months. A return to the Primeira Liga had been mooted as a possibility for Amorim, but the 41-year-old rejected Benfica before setting his sights on a move to the San Siro. On Tuesday, an official statement confirmed that Amorim had signed a two-year contract with the Serie A giants, with the option of a further season.
Pressure at Milan
Amorim takes over from Massimiliano Allegri, who was sacked last month after a disappointing campaign in which the Rossoneri finished fifth and failed to secure Champions League qualification. There will be enormous pressure on Amorim to hit the ground running, and Milan's hierarchy are prepared to support their new manager.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Amorim's arrival has signaled a 'transfer shift' at Milan, and the former United and Sporting boss has 'already outlined his ideas' in discussions with club bosses. While Amorim is satisfied with the squad he inherited, he would 'naturally be delighted' to bring in reinforcements.
Ramos as Top Target
PSG striker Ramos has played a bit-part role under Luis Enrique, and his agent, Jorge Mendes, has not ruled out a summer transfer. Ramos indicated he was happy in Paris last year, but his peripheral position means he 'might have had a change of heart', despite PSG's success. Amorim is 'hoping' this to be the case, as he is 'dreaming' of landing Ramos and ready to welcome him 'with open arms'.
An initial loan deal with an option or obligation to buy could be the most workable option for Milan, given PSG have set a hefty €40 million (£34.6m) price tag on Ramos. PSG signed Ramos from Benfica for €65 million (£56.3m) plus €15 million (£13m) in bonuses three years ago, seeing off strong competition from Manchester United. Ramos has scored 45 goals in 131 appearances for PSG and is under contract until June 2028.
Other Targets
In central midfield, Manuel Ugarte and Morten Hjulmand—two players who worked closely with Amorim—are named as potential targets. Sporting's Goncalo Inacio has been identified as Milan's preferred choice at centre-back. However, Milan would need to sell before entering the market, with wantaway forward Rafael Leao viewed as the best solution to raise funds. Uncertainty also surrounds the futures of Luka Modric, Mike Maignan, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, and Youssouf Fofana.
'There are ambitions that stay with you throughout your career and coaching AC Milan has always been one of mine,' Amorim told Milan's official website after his appointment. 'I know exactly what this club means: history, prestige and an extraordinary fanbase around the world. It is a challenge I embrace with pride and enthusiasm.'
