Milan's Amorim pushes out Tomori to free €15m for ball‑playing defender

AC Milan are set to cut ties with defender Fikayo Tomori after his omission from the squad against Chelsea on Tuesday, a move driven by head coach Ruben Amorim’s demand for a ball‑playing centre‑back. The Englishman has been deemed outside the Rossoneri project, prompting the club to free up funds estimated at €15 million.

Amorim has made clear he wants a centre‑back who is very comfortable on the ball. His insistence on a ball‑playing defender underpins the decision to part ways with Tomori.

Both the Englishman and the Frenchman Youssouf Fofana have been described as outside the Rossoneri project, confirming they no longer fit the club’s plans. Their exclusion signals a broader reshaping of the defensive unit under Amorim.

Milan value Tomori at around €15 million, and his planned exit will free up that amount for reinvestment. The freed budget is expected to fund the acquisition of a defender matching Amorim’s profile.

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Daniele Longo reported that the club will start talks with the player’s agent to ensure he finds a new destination, with Coventry City and Newcastle United already making initial enquiries. These clubs represent the first suitors interested in the English defender.

A possible replacement mentioned is Colombian Jhon Lucumi, while Juventus is also pursuing the defender, indicating competition for any incoming centre‑back. The interest from multiple clubs underscores the market demand for a ball‑playing centre‑back.

Amorim’s search for a ball‑playing centre‑back suggests Milan will continue reshaping their defensive line in the coming weeks. Identifying a suitable candidate is now a priority for the Rossoneri.

The next steps focus on identifying a player who matches the new profile while finalising Tomori’s departure, and the club’s ability to secure a suitable replacement will be crucial to maintaining stability at the back. A successful transition would preserve defensive cohesion as Milan pursue their season objectives.