Milan eye Senegalese defender as winter option amid Inácio chase

Milan are scouting a defensive option for the January transfer window. Reportedly, The target is 21‑year‑old Senegalese centre‑back Massiré Sylla, whose 1.96‑metre height and recent senior Senegal call‑up have raised his profile.

Milan's winter defensive hunt

Sylla has entered the Rossoneri’s radar as a potential winter signing. He boasts a record of winning 81.4 percent of aerial duels, leading the league in October. His overall defensive duel success stands at 76.3 percent, with an average of 5.64 tackles per 90 minutes.

Sylla also demonstrates the ability to launch long passes and to track quick attackers, traits valued in modern back‑lines. He began his career as a midfielder before converting to centre‑back, giving him a broader understanding of the game.

Milan bets on Van Dijk but Turkish competition strengthens

Sylla's rise and market valuation

Born in 2005 in Senegal, he progressed through the Diambars academy before joining France’s Pau FC. A subsequent move to Norway’s Lyn saw him named the best young player in the second division. Union Saint‑Gilloise secured his services in January for a fee reported at between 1960000 and 2 million euros.

Since arriving, he has become a regular starter and attracted interest from larger clubs. His first senior Senegal call‑up came as a replacement for the injured Mamadou Sarr. Union Saint‑Gilloise recently extended his contract until 2031, viewing him as a cornerstone of their project.

Milan’s interest arrives alongside speculation over Gonçalo Inácio of Sporting, who has also been linked with the club. Other suitors include Roma and several Turkish clubs, heightening competition for his signature. The defender’s market value is estimated at around 15 million euros. Milan continue to monitor his development, aware that the race for his signature will intensify in the coming months.