Milan’s tactical overhaul hinges on Hojbjerg, but sales first

AC Milan head coach Ruben Amorim has asked the club to sign midfielder Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg from Olympique de Marseille this summer, but Italian reports say the Rossoneri must first off‑load a pair of current midfielders before any new reinforcements can arrive.

Amorim wants a possession‑dominant side that presses high and wins the ball back near the opponent’s goal, a stark departure from the defensive set‑up favoured by former coach Massimiliano Allegri. Adding Hojbjerg, a box‑to‑box midfielder, would give Milan the energy and ball‑carrying ability required for that system.

The Rossoneri have already signalled a new direction under a revised leadership structure, breaking their transfer record with the arrival of Goncalo Ramos. A further significant outlay was made for centre‑back Mario Gila from Lazio, underscoring the club’s willingness to invest.

Amorim’s ambitions were on display during the Celtic vs AC Milan pre‑season friendly at Celtic Park in Glasgow on July 25, 2026, where he oversaw the squad’s performance. The match provided a platform for the coach to assess the existing midfield options.

Milan’s midfield is currently stocked with Luka Modric, Adrien Rabiot, Youssouf Fofana, Ruben Loftus‑Cheek, Yunus Musah, Samuele Ricci, Ardon Jashari, Warren Bondo and promising teenager Christian Comotto. This depth leaves little immediate room for another central midfielder.

Calciomercato reports suggest that two of the current midfielders must be moved on before Hojbjerg can be signed. Samuele Ricci and Youssouf Fofana are identified as the most likely candidates for departure.

Until suitable buyers are found for Ricci and Fofana, the Hojbjerg deal remains on hold, meaning Milan’s summer recruitment plan hinges on completing those sales. The club’s ability to balance the books while reshaping the midfield will determine whether the target can be secured.