Cardinale Takes Full Control: AC Milan Owner Reveals He Approves Every Transfer Cent

FolioPitch.com – 10 July 2026 | In a definitive statement that clears up any ambiguity surrounding AC Milan‘s transfer operations, owner Gerry Cardinale confirms he has final say on Milan s transfer business I approve every single cent. The RedBird Capital founder broke his silence to address recent reports about the powers of the club’s new CEO, Massimo Calvelli, specifically regarding the authority to sign off on deals up to €50 million.

In an exclusive clarification provided to Calcio e Finanza, Cardinale asserted that no one at the club holds approval rights over transfer market decisions except himself. “No one at AC Milan has approval rights, at any threshold, on the transfer market, except me. I approve every single cent, and I am the only one who gives the final green light on the transfer market,” he stated unequivocally.

This announcement comes after documents emerged suggesting that Calvelli could independently approve transactions up to €50 million, including player acquisitions. However, Cardinale’s intervention underscores that the ultimate authority rests firmly with him. The phrase “Cardinale confirms he has final say on Milan s transfer business I approve every single cent” now stands as the guiding principle for the club’s financial decisions.

Cardinale emphasized the collective nature of the club’s transfer strategy while reinforcing his unilateral approval power. “The way we operate, my power of approval is unilateral. And then something important: as I said in the press conference [the presentation of Ruben Amorim], we do things as a team. So the team will continue to make recommendations, and we’re working as a team. We have a lot of input from the coach and my team. But ultimately, when it comes time to make a decision, I approve it.”

This clarification puts to rest any speculation about potential delegation of transfer authority at the San Siro. The Italian press had widely reported that Calvelli, appointed as CEO in the summer, would have the power to green-light expenditures up to €50 million as part of a new management structure designed to streamline operations. However, Cardinale’s direct involvement signals that he still maintains a hands-on approach in shaping the Rossoneri’s squad.

The message is clear: Cardinale confirms he has final say on Milan s transfer business I approve every single cent. This statement is not just about authority but also about accountability. By placing himself as the gatekeeper of every euro spent, Cardinale is signaling to fans, investors, and the market that he is deeply invested in the club’s financial discipline. It also suggests that any major signings, such as the reported €30 million move for defender Malick Thiaw, will require his personal approval.

Under Cardinale’s ownership, AC Milan has navigated a delicate balance between competing at the highest level in Serie A and maintaining financial sustainability. The club returned to the Champions League quarterfinals last season and won the Scudetto in 2022, yet prudent spending remains a priority. By retaining veto power over transfers, Cardinale aligns himself with the model that brought success at other RedBird investments, where the owner’s direct involvement ensures alignment with long-term strategy.

The structure described by Cardinale is one of collaborative input but singular decision-making. He encourages recommendations from the coaching staff, the technical director, and his executive team, but the final nod remains his. This approach could streamline negotiations, as agents and selling clubs now know exactly who to convince: Gerry Cardinale himself.

As the January transfer window approaches, this revelation will shape AC Milan’s activity. Potential targets will be scrutinized not only by the scouting team but also by the owner’s office. The mantra that “Cardinale confirms he has final say on Milan s transfer business I approve every single cent” will hang over every negotiation.

In conclusion, Gerry Cardinale has drawn a clear line in the sand regarding AC Milan’s transfer dealings. While the club will continue to operate as a team, the final approval is his alone. This ensures that every transfer aligns with his vision and the financial health of the club, providing a stable foundation for future success.