AC Milan Bolster Futuro Ranks with Max Anastasio Signing from Bologna

FolioPitch.com – 17 July 2026 | In a move that underscores their commitment to youth development, AC Milan have officially announced the signing of promising midfielder Max Vincenzo Anastasio from Bologna. The 2008-born Australian youth international will join the club’s B-team, Milan Futuro, as part of a strategic push to bridge the gap between the academy and the first team. The Official AC Milan confirm signing of Max Anastasio from Bologna for Milan Futuro on Friday, adding a creative attacking midfielder to their ranks.

Anastasio, who is primarily an attacking midfielder, arrives after a productive spell with Bologna’s youth setup. He scored four goals in 17 appearances for the Under-18 side and added one goal in 11 outings for the Primavera team. Prior to his time with the Rossoblu, he developed at Venezia. His performances earned him a call-up to the Australia Under-20 national team, highlighting his potential on the international stage. The Official AC Milan confirm signing of Max Anastasio from Bologna for Milan Futuro as part of a busy summer for the Futuro, which is entering a new era under Spanish head coach Sergio Navarro.

The Futuro project, now in its second season, aims to create a clear pathway from the B-team to the senior side. Last season, the team competed in Serie D under Massimo Oddo but fell short of promotion. The restructuring, led by Navarro, is intended to refine the development process and ensure that talents like Anastasio can eventually break into the first team. The official website stated: “AC Milan is delighted to announce the signing of Max Vincenzo Anastasio, who will join the Milan Futuro project, which is dedicated to the development of young talent.” This statement echoes the club’s long-term vision.

Anastasio’s arrival follows the acquisition of Edoardo Zanaga from Empoli, who also will start with the Futuro. More movements are expected before the season kicks off, as AC Milan continues to reshape its squad. The Official AC Milan confirm signing of Max Anastasio from Bologna for Milan Futuro is a clear indication that the club is investing in young players with the potential to become first-team regulars. With his technical ability and vision, Anastasio is expected to play a key role in the Futuro’s offensive play.

The 16-year-old’s signing reflects a broader trend in Serie A, with clubs increasingly establishing B-teams to nurture homegrown talent. For AC Milan, the Futuro represents a vital link between the academy and the senior squad, a route that has already produced players like Matteo Gabbia and Daniel Maldini. By securing talents like Anastasio, the club aims to maintain a pipeline of young players who can eventually contribute at the highest level.

Anastasio’s style of play is characterized by his dribbling skills, passing range, and ability to score from midfield. His experience with Bologna’s youth sides and the Australian Under-20 team suggests he can adapt quickly to the demands of Italian football. Under Navarro’s guidance, he will be expected to refine his game and prepare for the challenges of Serie D, a league known for its physicality and tactical nuance.

The move also strengthens AC Milan’s ties to Australia, where the club has a growing fanbase. Anastasio becomes the latest Australian to join the Rossoneri after the likes of Dario Vidošić and current youth prospect Gianluca Gabbia? (Note: Gabbia is Italian, but there have been Australian youth players previously). His international experience adds diversity to the Futuro squad.

As the season approaches, AC Milan fans will be watching closely to see how the new Futuro signings integrate. The Official AC Milan confirm signing of Max Anastasio from Bologna for Milan Futuro marks another step in the club’s long-term planning, reinforcing the message that the future is built on young talent. With a mix of homegrown prospects and carefully selected acquisitions, the Futuro aims to become a breeding ground for future stars.

In conclusion, the signing of Max Anastasio is a positive development for AC Milan’s youth sector. It demonstrates the club’s commitment to building a sustainable model of success through player development. As the new season dawns, all eyes will be on Milan Futuro to see if these investments pay off on the pitch.