Bologna and Atalanta Eye Samuele Ricci as AC Milan Midfielder Declared No Longer Central in Plans

FolioPitch.com – 22 July 2026 | In a developing transfer saga, Serie A rivals Bologna and Atalanta have both expressed interest in AC Milan midfielder Samuele Ricci, according to journalist Nicolò Schira. The report, which highlights how Schira Bologna and Atalanta ask about midfielder who is no longer central in Milan’s plans, suggests that Ricci could be on the move this summer after falling down the pecking order at the San Siro.

Ricci, who joined Milan from Torino for €23 million just 12 months ago, signed a five-year contract with the Rossoneri through 2029. However, despite making over 30 appearances across all competitions last season, he struggled to secure a regular starting role. The presence of experienced midfielders Adrien Rabiot and Luka Modric, along with the preference for Youssouf Fofana as the right mezzala, limited his opportunities. As a result, Schira Bologna and Atalanta ask about midfielder who is no longer central in Milan’s plans, and both clubs are now monitoring the situation closely.

According to Schira, Ricci’s agents have been actively exploring exit routes, with Juventus also previously linked. However, it is Bologna and Atalanta who have now made formal inquiries. The midfielder, once considered a key prospect due to his versatility, leadership as former Torino captain, and Serie A experience, has seen his stock drop. The latest reports indicate that the Italian international is not part of coach Ruben Amorim’s long-term vision, with Carlo Pellegatti even naming Ricci as one of the players who has disappointed the new manager.

Milan are believed to be open to selling Ricci to recoup their investment, and a transfer fee in the region of €20-25 million is likely. The funds could be reinvested in a new midfielder, with Tottenham’s Pierre-Emile Højbjerg mentioned as a potential bargain option. The situation underscores the fluid nature of the transfer market, where Schira Bologna and Atalanta ask about midfielder who is no longer central in Milan’s plans, and both clubs could benefit from his acquisition.

For Bologna, Ricci would add depth and quality to a midfield that has lost key players this window. Atalanta, meanwhile, are looking to strengthen ahead of a Champions League campaign. The 23-year-old’s ability to play as a deep-lying playmaker or box-to-box midfielder makes him an attractive target. With the transfer window still open, more developments are expected.

In conclusion, Samuele Ricci’s future appears to be away from AC Milan, with multiple Serie A clubs circling. The phrase Schira Bologna and Atalanta ask about midfielder who is no longer central in Milan’s plans continues to echo through the transfer rumor mill, and a summer exit seems increasingly likely. Milan will aim to secure the best possible fee, while the player seeks regular first-team football to revive his career.