AC Milan Transfer News: Jorge Mendes Central to Centre-Back Pursuit as Five-Man Shortlist Emerges

FolioPitch.com – 25 October 2026 | AC Milan are set to make a new central defender their top priority when the transfer window reopens, and super-agent Jorge Mendes is emerging as a pivotal figure in their plans. The long-term absence of Matteo Gabbia, followed by the news that Mario Gila will miss at least the Udinese game due to a physical problem, has left the Rossoneri dangerously thin at the back. With Koni De Winter and Strahinja Pavlovic already being asked to perform overtime, the club’s hierarchy has identified defensive reinforcement as an urgent January need. As reported, CM Mendes key as Milan plot centre-back signing the five names on the list, with the Portuguese agent playing a central role in negotiations for several targets.

The Five Names on Milan’s List

According to Calciomercato.com, Milan have compiled a five-man shortlist of central defenders, each presenting a different challenge and opportunity. The names under consideration are Daniele Ghilardi of Roma, Tiago Gabriel of Lecce, Goncalo Inacio of Sporting CP, Kim Min-Jae of Bayern Munich, and Leny Yoro of Manchester United. The diversity of the list reflects Milan’s need to balance immediate impact with long-term planning, and it is here that CM Mendes key as Milan plot centre-back signing the five names on the list becomes ever more apparent.

Ghilardi and Tiago Gabriel: The Italian Options

In recent days, Milan have been approached about the availability of Daniele Ghilardi. The 23-year-old Roma defender is struggling for playing time at the Stadio Olimpico, and this could lead to an exit being evaluated with his agent. Ghilardi represents a potentially affordable option who knows Serie A well, though his lack of minutes raises questions about his match sharpness.

Meanwhile, Jorge Mendes is actively trying to convince Lecce to open up to a loan formula for Tiago Gabriel, whom he represents. The agent sees his client as a potential solution for Milan’s defensive crisis. However, head coach Ruben Amorim is not entirely convinced by the proposal, and the matter will be discussed further. This is another example of how CM Mendes key as Milan plot centre-back signing the five names on the list is shaping the club’s recruitment strategy.

Inacio and Kim: The High-Profile Targets

The names of Goncalo Inacio and Kim Min-Jae remain firmly on the Rossoneri’s shopping list. Inacio is considered the priority target, and Sporting CP are waiting for a formal move from Milan. The Portuguese international would command a significant fee, but his quality and potential make him an attractive proposition. Kim Min-Jae, on the other hand, would be more complicated to sign due to his hefty salary and the fact that Bayern Munich are not currently open to a mid-season exit. The South Korean’s situation will likely be monitored closely, but a January deal appears unlikely at this stage.

Leny Yoro: The Long-Term Vision

A player Milan are particularly interested in for next season is the young French defender Leny Yoro at Manchester United. The Rossoneri are hoping for some help from his agent, also Mendes, to facilitate what could be a €40-50m deal. Yoro is viewed as a generational talent, and Milan’s interest in him underscores their desire to build a defence for the future. Once again, CM Mendes key as Milan plot centre-back signing the five names on the list is evident, as the agent’s influence could prove decisive in landing the highly-rated teenager.

Amorim’s Input and the Road Ahead

Ruben Amorim’s arrival as head coach has brought a clear demand for defensive solidity, and the club are determined to give him the tools he needs. The injury crisis has exposed a lack of depth, and the management are aware that a failure to act in January could derail their season. The five names on the list each offer different solutions, and the club will need to weigh up cost, availability, and fit with Amorim’s system. With Mendes involved in multiple deals, Milan’s negotiating team will be leaning heavily on the agent’s network to get a deal over the line.

Conclusion

AC Milan’s pursuit of a central defender is set to dominate their January transfer window, and Jorge Mendes is at the heart of their efforts. From the loan proposition of Tiago Gabriel to the ambitious €40-50m move for Leny Yoro, the agent’s influence is undeniable. As the Rossoneri plot their next moves, CM Mendes key as Milan plot centre-back signing the five names on the list will continue to be the defining narrative of their defensive rebuild. With time running short and injuries mounting, Milan must act decisively to secure the right profile and keep their season on track.