CM Amorim’s Tactical Tweak Could See Milan Pursue a Full-Back: Four Names in the Frame

FolioPitch.com – 10 October 2026 | AC Milan head coach Ruben Amorim appears to be intensifying his work on a four-man defence, a shift that could reshape the club’s transfer strategy. According to Calciomercato.com, the back four seen in the build-up phase against Lecce has clearly sparked something in Amorim, who has been refining certain concepts during the international break. The focal point is Mario Gila, who has moved from his previous position of right-sided centre-back to become a more natural right-back. It is a small tweak, but one with a big impact on how Milan begin their attacks. Indeed, CM Amorim’s tactical tweak could see Milan pursue a full-back, with four names currently in the frame.

If Amorim sticks with this system, the decision could be made to pursue a natural full-back to help the balance of the side. The quartet under consideration offers a mix of youth, experience, and attacking flair. Milan’s first ‘addition’ for next season has already been confirmed: Zachary Athekame. The full-back has two goals and two assists in his first five Ligue 1 games on loan at Lyon, and the idea is that he will return after a year under Paulo Fonseca to remain at the club. Athekame’s performances in France have impressed scouts, and his return could provide cover on the right flank.

What about actual new signings? A name that Milan still like is Tiago Santos at Lille. He has put the physical problems of last season behind him and is now back to playing on the right side, with two goals in Ligue 1 already to his name. Santos’ agent? Jorge Mendes, a familiar figure in the Milan hierarchy. The Portuguese connection could facilitate negotiations, although Lille are unlikely to part with their prized asset without a fight. Santos represents a long-term investment, and his attacking output from right-back fits Amorim’s desire for offensive full-backs.

Keep an eye on another Portuguese player, this time on the left flank: Nuno Tavares. Milan already explored the possibility of a move with Lazio last summer and could be back in the mix, considering the former Lazio player has been performing exceptionally well this season under Gennaro Gattuso. Tavares has rebuilt his reputation in Italy, and his explosive pace and crossing ability make him an attractive option. However, Lazio may be reluctant to sell to a direct rival, and any deal would likely require a significant fee.

The final name is an intriguing one: Milan are on the trail of Rayan Aït-Nouri, with English sources confirming this. The Algerian left-back has a contract with Manchester City that expires in 2030 and is valued at around €30m. Aït-Nouri’s situation at City is worth monitoring; despite his long-term deal, he has struggled for consistent minutes, and a move to Milan could appeal as he seeks regular first-team football. At 24, he fits the profile of a player who can develop further under Amorim’s guidance.

So, CM Amorim’s tactical tweak could see Milan pursue a full-back, and the four names in the frame each bring unique qualities. The decision will hinge on Amorim’s commitment to the back four and the club’s budget. With the January window approaching, Milan’s management is already laying the groundwork for potential negotiations. The Rossoneri have been linked with several full-backs in recent months, but this latest development suggests a more focused approach.

To summarise the four candidates:

• Zachary Athekame (Lyon, on loan from Milan): Already owned by Milan, returning next season. Two goals and two assists in Ligue 1.
• Tiago Santos (Lille): Right-back, represented by Jorge Mendes, two Ligue 1 goals this season.
• Nuno Tavares (Lazio): Left-back, previously linked with Milan, impressive under Gattuso.
• Rayan Aït-Nouri (Manchester City): Left-back, valued at €30m, contract until 2030.

In conclusion, CM Amorim’s tactical tweak could see Milan pursue a full-back, and the four names in the frame provide a clear indication of the club’s intentions. Whether Milan act on these targets in January or next summer, the pursuit of a natural full-back appears to be a priority. Amorim’s evolving system demands specific profiles, and the quartet identified by Calciomercato.com reflects a blend of immediate quality and future potential. As the season progresses, the Rossoneri’s transfer activity will be closely watched, especially if the back-four experiment yields positive results on the pitch.