AC Milan Sets Sights on Genk Prodigy Karetsas: €40M Price Tag and Player Sales Needed

FolioPitch.com – 20 July 2026 | AC Milan‘s summer transfer strategy has taken a new direction. According to a detailed report from La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Rossoneri have zeroed in on a young talent from the Belgian Pro League. The headline? GdS Milan choose 40m Genk star as next target the reasons and what is needed first. This article breaks down the rationale behind the pursuit of Konstantinos Karetsas, the obstacles ahead, and the player sales necessary to make it happen.

Just weeks after securing Gonçalo Ramos and Mario Gila in quick succession, club owner Gerry Cardinale and his recruitment team have identified their next prize. The target is Konstantinos Karetsas, an 18-year-old attacking midfielder currently plying his trade at Genk. The club’s scouting department has been tracking the Greek prodigy for months, with technical director Geoffrey Moncada personally attending Genk’s Europa League clash against Braga in early November. In that match, Karetsas delivered two assists, showcasing the creative flair that has made him one of Europe’s most sought-after teenagers.

The decision to pursue Karetsas aligns with Milan’s recent trend of investing in young, high-potential assets. However, the path to signing him is fraught with complications. GdS Milan choose 40m Genk star as next target the reasons and what is needed first not only reflect the player’s market value but also the financial maneuvers required to satisfy Genk’s demands.

Why Karetsas?

Karetsas has been a revelation in the Belgian league this season, amassing an impressive 16 assists in the 2025-26 campaign. His vision, dribbling ability, and final ball have drawn comparisons to some of Europe’s elite playmakers. At just 18, he already reads the game like a seasoned veteran. Under the tactical guidance of new Milan coach Ruben Amorim, who favors fluid attacking football, Karetsas would likely thrive in a system that emphasizes creativity and quick transitions.

Genk, however, are in no hurry to part with their jewel. They recently rebuffed a €30 million offer from Borussia Dortmund, making it clear that only bids meeting their €40 million valuation will be considered. Moreover, Karetsas signed a contract extension in December 2025, tying him to Genk until 2029. This strengthens the Belgian club’s negotiating position, leaving Milan with little room for haggling.

What Milan Must Do First

To raise the necessary funds and comply with Financial Fair Play, Milan must offload several players. The most notable candidate is Rafa Leão. The Portuguese winger expressed a desire for a new challenge at the end of May, but no suitable offers have materialized. Galatasaray has shown interest but only proposed a lucrative salary package (around €10 million net per season) without engaging Milan in formal transfer talks. Leão, for his part, is reportedly not keen on moving to Turkey, which complicates matters further.

Other potential departures include fringe players and academy graduates who could generate modest fees. The club is also monitoring opportunities in the defensive sector, with Milan reportedly making inquiries about Troyes’ 2006-born left-back Sankhoun Diawara. However, that move is likely intended for the Milan Futuro project rather than the first team.

It’s clear that GdS Milan choose 40m Genk star as next target the reasons and what is needed first point to a delicate balancing act. The club must simultaneously advance negotiations with Genk while working on outgoing transfers to free up cash and squad space.

Timeline and Challenges

Milan’s ownership, led by Gerry Cardinale, has demonstrated a methodical approach in the transfer market. The pursuit of Karetsas is described as a sniper-like operation: precise, patient, and ready to adapt. However, the clock is ticking. Other European giants are circling, and Genk’s stance is firm. If Milan cannot secure a quick sale of Leão or another high-value asset, they may be forced to explore alternative targets or delay the move until the following window.

In the meantime, Karetsas continues to impress for Genk. His recent performances have only increased his stock, and any delay could see the asking price rise. For Milan, the key is to act decisively while maintaining financial prudence.

Conclusion

AC Milan’s ambition to sign Konstantinos Karetsas is a testament to their forward-thinking recruitment strategy. The potential acquisition of the €40 million-rated star would add a dynamic creative force to the squad, aligning with Ruben Amorim’s tactical philosophy. However, the success of this transfer hinges on player sales, particularly the departure of Rafa Leão. As the summer window progresses, all eyes will be on Milan’s ability to execute this complex operation. GdS Milan choose 40m Genk star as next target the reasons and what is needed first – the Rossoneri’s next move will reveal whether they can hit the bullseye once again.