AC Milan’s Modric Succession Plan: Tuttosport Milan eyeing Brighton star with difficult midfield mission in mind

FolioPitch.com – 10 October 2026 | As the international break offers a moment of reflection, AC Milan‘s management is already plotting for a future that may not include the legendary Luka Modric. The Croatian maestro, now a Ballon d’Or winner, continues to defy age with his performances, but the club is acutely aware that his time at the highest level is finite. According to Tuttosport Milan eyeing Brighton star with difficult midfield mission in mind, the Rossoneri have identified two Premier League-based targets to eventually fill the void: Bournemouth‘s Alex Scott and Brighton & Hove Albion’s Yasin Ayari.

The report from Tuttosport, relayed by MilanNews, confirms that Milan are actively scouting for a successor to Modric, whose current deal runs until 2026. While the player himself has expressed joy in his current chapter and prefers not to look too far ahead, the club’s hierarchy is taking a proactive approach. This season has been a bonus for Milan, who are savoring the quality, intensity, experience, and leadership that Modric brings to the squad. Yet, the looming prospect of his retirement or departure means that planning must begin now.

The Top Target: Alex Scott

At the top of Milan’s wishlist is Bournemouth’s Alex Scott, a player who recently made his England debut against none other than Modric’s Croatia. The 21-year-old has been making waves on the south coast with his mature performances in the Premier League. His ability to dictate tempo, press relentlessly, and contribute in the final third has caught the eye of Milan’s scouts. However, prising him away from Bournemouth will not be straightforward. The Cherries are under no pressure to sell, and his recent international recognition has only inflated his market value. Competition from other top clubs is expected, making this a difficult midfield mission for Milan.

As Tuttosport Milan eyeing Brighton star with difficult midfield mission in mind suggests, the Rossoneri are also casting their net wider. The asking price for Scott and the fierce competition for his signature have prompted Milan to explore alternative options. That is where Yasin Ayari comes into the frame.

Yasin Ayari: The Seagulls’ Rising Star

Brighton’s Yasin Ayari has been one of the standout performers in a brilliant start to the season for the Seagulls. The Swedish midfielder, who impressed at the World Cup, has quickly become a key figure in Roberto De Zerbi’s side. His technical ability, vision, and work rate have drawn comparisons to Modric himself. Ayari’s performances have not gone unnoticed, and Brighton, known for their savvy negotiation, would demand a significant outlay to part with their prized asset.

Milan’s interest in Ayari is not merely a fallback. The 20-year-old represents a long-term investment, capable of developing into a world-class midfielder. His style of play, characterized by incisive passing and intelligent movement, aligns with Milan’s desire to maintain a dynamic and possession-based approach. Yet, securing his services will be equally challenging. Brighton have a reputation for driving hard bargains, and with Ayari’s stock rising, the competition will be fierce.

The Difficulty of the Mission

Milan’s pursuit of a Modric heir is fraught with obstacles. Both Scott and Ayari are young, talented, and under contract with Premier League clubs that have no need to sell. The financial might of English clubs means that Milan must be creative in their negotiations, perhaps offering player exchanges or performance-related bonuses. Furthermore, the Rossoneri are not alone in their admiration; several top European clubs are monitoring both players.

As Tuttosport Milan eyeing Brighton star with difficult midfield mission in mind highlights, the management is aware that this is a long-term project. The international break has allowed them to plan for scenarios that may unfold in a few months, rather than just focusing on the winter transfer window. Milan’s sporting director, Geoffrey Moncada, and his team are known for their meticulous scouting and data-driven approach. They will need all their expertise to navigate this tricky transfer landscape.

Modric’s Legacy and the Future

Luka Modric’s impact at Milan cannot be overstated. Since his arrival, he has elevated the team’s standards, mentoring younger players and delivering match-winning performances. Replacing him is not just about finding a similar skill set; it is about finding a leader who can inspire. Alex Scott and Yasin Ayari are both at the beginning of their careers, but their potential is immense. Milan’s challenge is to convince them that San Siro is the right next step.

The club’s ambition is clear: they want to remain competitive at the highest level, both domestically and in Europe. Securing a top-tier midfielder is essential to that goal. While Modric continues to weave his magic, Milan’s scouts are working tirelessly behind the scenes. The coming months will reveal whether they can pull off what many consider a difficult midfield mission.

Conclusion

AC Milan’s search for Luka Modric’s successor is a testament to their forward-thinking strategy. With Alex Scott and Yasin Ayari in their sights, the Rossoneri are preparing for a future without their talisman. However, the path to signing either player is riddled with challenges, from hefty transfer fees to intense competition. As Tuttosport Milan eyeing Brighton star with difficult midfield mission in mind indicates, Milan are fully aware of the hurdles ahead. The club’s ability to navigate this complex transfer maze will determine whether they can secure a worthy heir to Modric’s throne. For now, the planning continues, and Milan fans can take comfort in knowing that their club is leaving no stone unturned in the quest to maintain its midfield excellence.