AC Milan Shift Focus to Lecce’s Tiago Gabriel After Center-Back Search Intensifies

FolioPitch.com – 29 June 2026 | AC Milan are accelerating their efforts to bolster the defense, with a new name emerging in their search for a central defender. According to renowned transfer expert Alfredo Pedullà, the Rossoneri have been offered Lecce‘s highly-rated young defender Tiago Gabriel. This development comes after Milan’s pursuit of Benfica’s Antonio Silva hit a snag, and the club’s recent switch to super-agent Jorge Mendes for the Goncalo Ramos deal has opened new avenues. The keyword ‘Pedulla Milan offered Lecce star in centre-back hunt after Mendes switch’ perfectly encapsulates this latest twist in the transfer window.

Tiago Gabriel, a 21-year-old French-born Portuguese defender, has enjoyed a breakout season with Lecce in Serie A. With 37 league appearances and two goals, he has established himself as one of the most promising center-backs in Italy. His value has soared past €25-30 million, making him a significant investment. The report from Pedullà indicates that Gabriel’s recent switch to Gestifute, the agency headed by Jorge Mendes, has facilitated Milan’s interest. Mendes, who just orchestrated the club-record signing of Goncalo Ramos from PSG, could play a key role in bringing Gabriel to San Siro.

Milan’s search for a center-back has been a priority for new head coach Ruben Amorim, who requires specific defensive profiles for his system. Initially, the club focused on Antonio Silva of Benfica, but negotiations stalled after initial optimism. The ‘Pedulla Milan offered Lecce star in centre-back hunt after Mendes switch’ narrative now positions Gabriel as a viable alternative. Pedullà’s report suggests that Gabriel’s agents have proactively offered him to Milan, sensing an opportunity after the Mendes connection was established.

The interest in Tiago Gabriel is not new. Back in April, both Milan and Juventus were linked with the Lecce star. His performances against Cagliari and Fiorentina, where he scored crucial goals, caught the attention of Italy’s top clubs. Lecce, however, are reluctant to let go of their prized asset, and any deal would require a substantial fee. The ‘Pedulla Milan offered Lecce star in centre-back hunt after Mendes switch’ phrase highlights the synergy between Milan’s transfer strategy and Mendes’ agency, which could facilitate smoother negotiations.

Milan’s defensive overhaul is part of a broader squad rebuild under Amorim. With Simon Kjaer aging and Fikayo Tomori inconsistent, the club needs young, reliable center-backs. Gabriel fits the profile of a modern defender comfortable on the ball and strong in duels. His versatility to play in a back three or four makes him an attractive option. While Antonio Silva remains a target, the emergence of Gabriel gives Milan a contingency plan.

In conclusion, AC Milan’s center-back search is taking a new direction with the offering of Tiago Gabriel. The involvement of Jorge Mendes, fresh from the Ramos deal, could expedite the process. Whether Milan land Silva or Gabriel, one thing is clear: the club is determined to strengthen its defense before the window closes. The ‘Pedulla Milan offered Lecce star in centre-back hunt after Mendes switch’ saga is one to watch closely in the coming days.