Milan Shifts Focus to United’s Martinez and City’s Stones After Silva Deal Collapses

FolioPitch.com – 01 July 2026 | AC Milan have been forced to pivot their defensive transfer strategy after failing to secure Benfica’s Antonio Silva, and according to a new report, the Rossoneri are now in contact over two high‑profile Premier League defenders. The latest update from CorSport Milan in contact over Man City and Man Utd duo after Antonio Silva blow reveals that both Manchester City’s John Stones and Manchester United’s Lisandro Martinez have emerged as serious targets for the Serie A side.

The CorSport Milan in contact over Man City and Man Utd duo after Antonio Silva blow report comes as Milan look to strengthen their backline under new head coach Ruben Amorim. After splashing a club‑record €80 million on striker Gonçalo Ramos, the club’s hierarchy is determined to provide Amorim with a top‑class centre‑back. The pursuit of Antonio Silva had dominated headlines for days, but Benfica’s €30 million asking price for a player with only a year left on his contract was deemed too steep by the Rossoneri.

Now, with the CorSport Milan in contact over Man City and Man Utd duo after Antonio Silva blow narrative, the focus has shifted to two English giants. John Stones, 30, is out of contract at Manchester City this summer and is therefore available on a free transfer. His experience under Pep Guardiola could be invaluable, but Saudi Arabian clubs are also monitoring his situation closely. The other target is Lisandro Martinez, 27, who has a contract with Manchester United until 2027 but is well known to Amorim from their time together at Old Trafford. Martinez would command a significant fee, but his familiarity with the coach’s system makes him an attractive option.

In addition to the Premier League duo, Milan are also considering Lecce’s Tiago Gabriel, who is represented by Jorge Mendes. The agent offered the Brazilian defender to the club after the Silva talks collapsed, but his price tag of €35‑40 million has given the Rossoneri pause. As the CorSport Milan in contact over Man City and Man Utd duo after Antonio Silva blow story develops, it appears that the club is casting a wide net to secure the right defensive reinforcement before the window closes.

Milan’s search is driven by the need to improve a backline that has been inconsistent this season. With the club aiming to challenge for the Scudetto and make a deep run in the Champions League, adding quality in central defence is a priority. The experience of Stones could provide leadership, while Martinez offers aggression and ball‑playing ability. Both players have proven themselves at the highest level, and Amorim’s personal connection with Martinez could give Milan an edge in negotiations.

However, there are obstacles. Manchester United are reluctant to let Martinez leave, especially given his importance to Erik ten Hag’s plans. Stones, meanwhile, might prefer to stay in England or move to Saudi Arabia for a lucrative final contract. Milan will need to act swiftly to convince either player to join the project at San Siro.

As the transfer window enters its final weeks, the Rossoneri are leaving no stone unturned. The CorSport Milan in contact over Man City and Man Utd duo after Antonio Silva blow saga serves as a clear indicator that the club is ready to make a significant investment in its defensive unit. Whether it’s a free transfer for Stones or a big‑money move for Martinez, Milan fans can expect a new face at the back before the deadline.

In conclusion, AC Milan’s defensive dilemma has taken a dramatic turn following the collapse of the Antonio Silva deal. The club’s reported interest in John Stones and Lisandro Martinez, as highlighted by CorSport, shows that they are targeting established talents to bolster their squad. With limited time remaining in the transfer window, the Rossoneri must now turn this contact into a concrete signing if they are to meet Amorim’s demands.