Milan eye Alejandro Balde as injuries force Ruben Amorim to rethink wing options

Milan face a shortage on the flanks after Pervis Estupinan and Alexis Saelemaekers were ruled out, prompting manager Ruben Amorim to explore new signings. One name circulating is Alejandro Balde, a player Mendes proposed in the ESTATE, with his Barcelona situation now under close watch.

Injuries tighten the squad

Estupinan suffered a left‑knee sprain with low‑grade medial collateral ligament irritation. The Ecuadorian’s injury is expected to keep him out only briefly. By contrast, Saelemaekers requires a further operation and is unlikely to return before February 2027, leaving a long‑term void on the left side.

Amorim’s tactical reshuffle

Amorim is already considering Diego Moreira for a dual role. Moreira could alternate between a left‑wing back slot and a more advanced attacking‑midfielder position supporting the striker, offering flexibility while the club copes with the absences.

Potential Balde comeback

Rumours suggest Milan may reopen talks about Alejandro Balde, whose status at Barcelona remains uncertain. The 2003‑born full‑back has seen limited minutes this season, often substituted after twelve minutes in a match against Racing Santander, and now sits behind Joao Cancelo and Xavi Espart in the pecking order.

Milan brace for long‑term loss as Saelemaekers faces ankle setback until 2027

Balde could depart in the winter window, with Barcelona willing to sell to fund a new centre‑back after the recent injury to Christensen. Such a move would align with Milan’s need for a quality left‑back.

Last August, Jorge Mendes offered Balde to Milan for €40 million. Milan rejected the bid, citing financial constraints and a priority on signing a centre‑back and an attacking midfielder. The January market could TORNA to life if Barcelona presents a more favourable deal, especially as Balde’s contract runs until 30 June 2028.

Other clubs are also monitoring the situation. Juventus have shown interest in providing Luciano Spalletti with a left‑back, while Manchester United, who pursued Balde last summer, may re‑enter the race.

Milan winger Saelemaekers faces season‑ending ankle surgery after September sprain

The long national‑team break ends on a sour note for Milan, with the double injury blow casting doubt over the club’s immediate plans. How Amorim navigates these constraints will shape Milan’s campaign in the weeks ahead.