Allegri wanted to sign Doumbia for Milan and Napoli, but Sporting have him

Massimiliano Allegri showed interest in signing the midfielder Issa Doumbia, first for AC Milan and then for Napoli, but the Portuguese club Sporting officially already secured his signature this summer, paying more than 20 million euros.

Allegri tried to sign Doumbia

The Italian coach expressed the desire to strengthen AC Milan's midfield with Issa Doumbia, according to journalist Nicolò Schira. Igli Tare, former sporting director of the Rossoneri, even met with the midfielder's agent.

When Allegri took over as coach at Napoli, he reiterated the intention to sign Doumbia, but at that time Sporting had already completed the deal. The Portuguese club secured the player's signature before the Napoli manager could act.

Doumbia made his debut as a starter for the Italy national team this Monday, enhancing his international reputation. So far, he has earned four call‑ups for Italy's A team.

The midfielder arrived at Sporting this summer, in a transfer exceeding 20 million euros. To date, he has already played eight matches for the green‑and‑white side.

Allegri greatly admires midfielder Issa Doumbia and wanted him at AC Milan last spring (Igli Tare met with the agent). He then requested his signing upon arriving at Napoli, but Sporting CP had already closed the deal. – Nicolò Schira, October 5, 2026