AC Milan Intensify Search for Creative No.10: Zaniolo and Goncalves Emerge as Key Targets

FolioPitch.com – 16 July 2026 | AC Milan‘s summer transfer window is heating up as the club actively pursues a new attacking midfielder. According to recent reports, CM Milan hunting for a No 10 Udinese and Sporting CP stars remain options as the Rossoneri look to bolster their creative options under new head coach Ruben Amorim. The Portuguese tactician, known for his reliance on playmakers behind the strikers during his tenure at Sporting CP, has identified the need for a trequartista to unlock defenses in Serie A.

The pursuit of a number ten has led Milan’s scouting department to evaluate several profiles. Among the most prominent candidates are Udinese’s Nicolò Zaniolo and Sporting CP’s Pedro Goncalves, both of whom fit the profile of a dynamic, goal-scoring playmaker. CM Milan hunting for a No 10 Udinese and Sporting CP stars remain options that could provide the creativity and flair missing from the current squad.

Zaniolo, who has struggled with injuries and contract issues at Udinese, has been offered to Milan by his agents in recent days. The Italian international’s availability has rekindled interest from the Rossoneri, who previously targeted him during his Roma days. While his €60 million price tag from Eintracht Frankfurt’s Can Uzun has proved prohibitive, Zaniolo’s situation at Udinese could make him a more affordable alternative. Meanwhile, Pedro Goncalves, better known as ‘Pote’, is a player Ruben Amorim knows intimately from their time together at Sporting CP. The Portuguese star has a €60 million release clause, but sources suggest a fee of €25-30 million could suffice, especially with Sporting CP facing financial pressures.

Other names have also surfaced in Milan’s transfer radar. Eintracht Frankfurt’s Can Uzun remains a target but the German club’s €60 million valuation has stalled negotiations. Similarly, Genk’s Konstantinos Karetsas, an 18-year-old Greek prodigy, is valued at €35-40 million but appears close to joining Borussia Dortmund. Kerim Alajbegovic, a long-term target, is reportedly leaning towards Atalanta under the influence of director Giuntoli. These developments have pushed Milan to focus on Zaniolo and Goncalves as more realistic options.

The urgency for a number ten is underscored by Ruben Amorim’s tactical system, which thrives with a creative fulcrum behind the forwards. At Sporting CP, he maximized the talents of Bruno Fernandes, Francisco Trincao, and Pedro Goncalves. Now, he seeks a similar profile at Milan. The club’s management, including Zlatan Ibrahimovic, is split on preferences, but the search continues. CM Milan hunting for a No 10 Udinese and Sporting CP stars remain options that could define the club’s summer window.

As the transfer market progresses, Milan will need to move decisively. The competition for Zaniolo is expected to be intense, with several Serie A clubs monitoring his situation. Goncalves, meanwhile, could be swayed by Amorim’s presence and the prospect of playing in Italy’s top flight. With pre-season already underway, Milan’s hierarchy is working tirelessly to secure a signing that aligns with the coach’s vision.

In conclusion, AC Milan’s quest for a number ten is far from over. With Zaniolo and Goncalves as primary options, the next few weeks will be crucial. The keyword ‘CM Milan hunting for a No 10 Udinese and Sporting CP stars remain options’ encapsulates the club’s strategy as they aim to reinforce their attack and challenge for honors in the upcoming season.