AC Milan Announces Edoardo Zanaga Signing for Milan Futuro Project

FolioPitch.com – 16 July 2026 | In a move that underscores their commitment to youth development, Official AC Milan confirm signing of Edoardo Zanaga from Empoli for Milan Futuro as the Rossoneri continue to strengthen their pipeline of emerging talent. The 16-year-old forward, born in 2008, has joined from Empoli FC and will initially be part of the Milan Futuro project, which focuses on nurturing young players for the first team.

The transfer, reported earlier this week by multiple Italian sources, sees Milan pay a fee of €300,000 for the promising striker. The deal was finalized after thorough negotiations, and the club announced it via an official statement: “AC Milan is delighted to announce the signing of Edoardo Zanaga, who will join the Milan Futuro project, which is dedicated to the development of new talent. The 2008-born forward has joined from Empoli FC, and now he will wear Rossonero.”

Zanaga, primarily a centre-forward or second striker, is also comfortable playing on the wings. Standing at an impressive height for his age, he has drawn comparisons to Zlatan Ibrahimovic, whom he has cited as his inspiration. His playing style features a combination of physical presence, technical skill, and finishing ability, reminiscent of the Swedish legend. This has made him a highly sought-after prospect in Italian youth football.

His journey began at SCA Asti before being scouted by Juventus, where he played in their youth system. In the summer of 2022, he moved to Empoli, where he quickly made an impact. For the U16s, he scored eight goals in nine games, earning recognition as the best player in Group C. Such performances attracted the attention of several top clubs, but Milan acted decisively to secure his signature.

The 2024-25 season was challenging for Zanaga, as he suffered a severe injury that kept him sidelined for months. However, upon his return, he rediscovered his goalscoring form with the Under 17s, demonstrating resilience and determination. Now, with this move, he takes the next step in his career, joining a Milan academy known for producing stars. The Official AC Milan confirm signing of Edoardo Zanaga from Empoli for Milan Futuro reinforces the club’s strategy to invest in high-potential youngsters, ensuring a bright future for the Rossoneri.

Milan Futuro, the club’s dedicated youth development project, has been instrumental in integrating young talents into the professional setup. By adding Zanaga, the club bolsters its attacking options for the youth teams and lays the groundwork for potential first-team contributions down the line. The technical staff are excited about his raw potential and believe that with proper guidance, he can develop into a key player for Milan.

The signing has been met with enthusiasm by fans, who see Zanaga as a symbol of the club’s renewed focus on homegrown talent. Social media buzzes with highlight reels of his goals for Empoli, and expectations are high. However, the club emphasizes patience, as they plan to integrate him gradually into the Milan Futuro system, allowing him to adapt and grow.

Zanaga himself expressed his delight through official channels, stating his pride in joining a historic club like AC Milan. He looks forward to working with the coaches and teammates to improve and eventually earn a spot in the senior squad. His commitment to the Rossoneri cause is evident, and his arrival marks another milestone in Milan’s youth recruitment efforts.

In conclusion, the Official AC Milan confirm signing of Edoardo Zanaga from Empoli for Milan Futuro represents a strategic move that aligns with the club’s long-term vision. With a €300,000 investment, Milan has secured a player with immense upside, who has already shown his ability to perform at various youth levels. As he recovers fully from his injury and adapts to his new environment, all eyes will be on his progress. The Rossoneri faithful can look forward to watching a talented youngster develop under their watch, hoping he becomes the next star to emerge from the famed Milan academy.