From San Siro’s echoing stands to high-stakes transfer boardrooms — who should AC Milan sell looms as one of the most provocative questions ahead of the 2025/26 campaign. With expectations high, financial pressures mounting, and a need for reinvention under Massimiliano Allegri, Milan face a delicate balancing act: letting go of certain names without compromising core identity. In this article, DuitKick delves into which players should be moved, which should be kept, and how the Rossoneri can orchestrate a smart refresh.
Why Milan Must Sell: Context Behind the Clearout
Every great squad evolves — but Milan’s overhaul is being driven by necessity. The club is aiming to raise significant funds to reinvest in upgrades, particularly with plans to structure a leaner, more efficient roster. Reports suggest Milan are targeting up to eight departures this summer to streamline their squad size and free up budget.
Concurrently, some long-serving or high-wage players have dwindling returns or misaligned long-term fits with Allegri’s project. To avoid asset decay — and to capitalize while demand exists — now is the moment for Milan’s hierarchy to act.
High-Priority Sales: Players Who Should Go
Below is a detailed breakdown of Milan players who should seriously be considered for sale this summer. These aren’t easy calls, but they may be necessary for renewal.
1. Theo Hernández
Arguably Milan’s most electrifying full-back in recent history, Theo’s attacking contributions have been massive. But in recent seasons, defensive lapses, injuries, and a dip in consistency have taken a toll. Multiple sources suggest Milan are eyeing a sale of Theo to help fund their rebuild. His market value remains high, making him one of the few who can generate a big transfer fee. Selling Theo could net Milan significant funds to reinvest in other positions.
2. Rafael Leão
Leão is a bonafide talent and often a match-winner, but he is reportedly also viewed as a saleable asset. Milan’s plan appears to include offloading Leão to free budget and rebuild around other attacking profiles. If Milan can fetch a premium for him, doing so might make sense in the longer-term reset.
3. Mike Maignan
Goalkeeping is traditionally stable, but Maignan’s contract situation and high salary make him vulnerable. Some reports suggest Milan would prefer to sell him now rather than risk losing him on a free transfer later. The club may see value in bringing in a younger, less costly alternative.
4. Fikayo Tomori
Tomori’s defensive calm and ball-playing ability are assets, but Milan have floated the idea of moving him on this summer. With two years left on his deal, this window might offer the final opportunity to maximize his sale value. If Milan can find a strong successor, Tomori could be among those who exit.
5. Samuel Chukwueze
Chukwueze has struggled to cement a consistent role, and rumors point to his departure. In the past winter, Milan attempted to shift him to the Premier League, but it fell through. With reduced playing time ahead, selling Chukwueze is logical.
6. Yacine Adli
A more subtle candidate, Adli is reportedly already on Milan’s purging list. He is not part of Allegri’splans and has seen his name linked with moves to Saudi clubs. While his market may not bring huge returns, moving Adli would clear space in midfield and salary budget.
Who Should Stay: Core Values Milan Should Preserve
While several names are being eyed for sale, Milan must also protect the heart of the squad. Here’s who should be retained:
- Santiago Giménez, the striker recently signed, should be a cornerstone of the attack given his promise and rising profile.
- Youth and stability players — those stepping up in the Benevento years, or those with affinity to Milan— deserve continuity.
- Players who offer a tactical fit to Allegri’s style or transition into supporting roles should be preserved.
In sum: don’t throw out the foundation while renovating. The balance between sale and continuity is vital.
Strategic Considerations: Maximize Value, Minimize Risk
Selling is not just about who, but how.
Timing Matters
Some players may attract more interest earlier in the window. Milan must move quickly to avoid undervaluing key names.
Reinvestment Plan
It’s not enough to sell — Milan must have clear targets and replacements. Plans already hint at signing assets like Nuno Tavares and Diogo Costa using funds.
Contract Lengths & Clauses
For players with short-term contracts like Tomori, Milan should enforce release clauses or negotiate insertions. For high-wage veterans, gradual exit strategies may be necessary.
Market Matching
Sell Theo or Leão only if there is real demand. If a top club comes calling with a strong bid, pull the trigger; otherwise, retain competitive options.
Risk Scenarios: What If Milan Get It Wrong
- Selling too much too fast risks depleting squad depth and destabilizing performance.
- Underinvesting the revenue means the team could regress.
- Losing identity if the wrong characters depart. Milan must avoid becoming a blank slate with no soul.
If any of Theo, Leão, or Maignan depart, Milan need immediate replacements ready to avoid collapse in form or morale.
Final Thoughts
Who should AC Milan sell is a loaded question — one that balances financial urgency with sporting ambition. Milan should entertain moving high-value names like Theo Hernández, Rafael Leão, Mike Maignan, Fikayo Tomori, Samuel Chukwueze, and Yacine Adli, but only within a tightly controlled strategy that secures replacements and protects the club’s core DNA.
If Milan execute wisely, fans could witness a rebirth — not a hollow purge. What do you think? Which names deserve a farewell, and who must stay and lead the next generation?
If you liked this breakdown, stay tuned to DuitKick for player profiles, match reviews, and transfer updates all season long.
