AC Milan have been linked with a plethora of attacking midfielders this summer, one of which is CSKA Moscow’s Nikola Vlasic.
The Rossoneri are in the market for a new playmaker following Hakan Calhanoglu’s exit, and while various other areas have been addressed thus far, more is arguably needed in the final third to support Brahim Diaz as our chief creative No.10.
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The list of touted targets is far too long to include every name linked with Milan to this point, but the likes of James Rodriguez, Isco and Philippe Coutinho are just a few.
While they would add a ‘star name’, it’s questionable given their respective issues with injuries and form whether or not they would be the most reliable and consistent solutions in that department.
As per Calciomercato, Vlasic is said to be a name on Milan’s list and while he wants the move too, it’s unclear if a deal will be done between the two clubs at this stage.
It’s hoped that changes, as while he perhaps isn’t the finished article or a stand-out talent that many supporters are desperate to see arrive this summer, he does tick a lot of the right boxes.
Vlasic could have a big impact if Milan move materialises
The 23-year-old has 33 goals and 20 assists in 103 appearances for CSKA Moscow, while he’s scored six goals in 26 caps for Croatia.
His move to Everton didn’t produce the desired outcome, but that’s an experience that he can learn from should he secure another big move for his career.
Nevertheless, it’s his all-round style and talent that could make him an ideal signing for Milan, as he offers the characteristics that would help him settle into Stefano Pioli’s system and style of play perfectly.
Off the ball, he has the work ethic and stamina to press higher up the pitch in conjunction with the likes of Ante Rebic and Alexis Saelemaekers to apply pressure on the opposition in their own half.
That is a crucial aspect of Milan’s success as it allows us to get onto the front foot and strike quickly, and so a player who can offer that out of possession is pivotal.
On the ball, Vlasic is capable of creating moments that make the difference and can prove to be decisive, whether it’s an assist, a strike from distance or getting forward to get his name on the scoresheet with a more simple finish.
He has the ability to directly impact games and he can do so consistently, something that was lacking with Calhanoglu even though the Turkish playmaker did make an important contribution during his tenure at the club.
Much like his compatriot Rebic, Vlasic can turn games even if he isn’t playing at his best, and with Milan wanting to play at a quick tempo in and out of possession and to put pressure on the opposition, he’s the kind of player who could slot in seamlessly in the squad.
Time will tell if a deal can be done or if Milan are forced to consider alternative targets, but instead of going with an injury-plagued player in and around the 30 years of age mark or going too far the other way with a raw talent who hasn’t shown enough yet at a high level, Vlasic is nestled in the middle and could be a really smart pick up if a transfer materialises.
