Milan’s Bold Transfer Ambition: Tuttosport Leao out Foden in Milan Keep Zaniolo on Hold to Pursue No 1 Attacking Target

FolioPitch.com – 17 July 2026 | In a stunning twist that has captivated the football world, AC Milan‘s summer transfer strategy has taken a dramatic turn. According to a report from Tuttosport, the Rossoneri are orchestrating a complex plan that could see Rafael Leao depart to make way for Manchester City‘s Phil Foden, while Nicolò Zaniolo is kept on standby. This bold move, encapsulated by the phrase ‘Tuttosport Leao out Foden in Milan keep Zaniolo on hold to pursue No 1 attacking target,’ underscores the club’s relentless pursuit of elite talent.

The report, published by the Italian daily, reveals that Milan’s management, led by Gerry Cardinale, is dreaming big. After already splashing €100 million on Gonçalo Ramos and Mario Gila, the club’s next priority is a left-footed attacking midfielder to fit head coach Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system. While Christian Pulisic and Christopher Nkunku provide options on the left, Amorim specifically wants a player who can operate on the centre-right, and Foden has emerged as the dream candidate.

Foden, 24, is not considered an indispensable part of new Manchester City boss Enzo Maresca’s plans. Tuttosport claims he could be available for a fee between €50-60 million—a figure that conveniently aligns with the expected sale price of Rafael Leao. The Portuguese winger has been linked with a move away, and Milan are reportedly confident they can secure around €50 million for him. This potential exchange, often referred to as ‘Leao out, Foden in,’ is seen as a perfect swap, with both players earning similar salaries: Foden’s €7.5 million net per season at City matches Leao’s €7 million at Milan.

The narrative of ‘Tuttosport Leao out Foden in Milan keep Zaniolo on hold to pursue No 1 attacking target’ is further complicated by the situation of Nicolò Zaniolo. The former Roma and Galatasaray star, now at Udinese, is reportedly pushing for a move to Milan. However, the Rossoneri are hesitating. Zaniolo is not their first choice; they view him as a backup option if the Foden deal falls through. Additionally, the player is embroiled in a salary dispute with Udinese, skipping training and straining relations with the Pozzo family. Milan are unwilling to get drawn into that conflict, preferring to wait and see how the Zaniolo situation evolves.

Amorim is currently evaluating his squad during pre-season, with the first friendly against Celtic scheduled for July 25. Key decisions on player sales, including left-back Pervis Estupinan who is in talks with Aston Villa, are expected within a week. The manager has already identified the need for a left-footed playmaker, and Samuel Chukwueze—the only left-footer in the attacking ranks—is being tested as a right wing-back, a role where Amorim likes to deploy inverted wingers.

Interestingly, Foden’s agent is Rafaela Pimenta, the former partner of the late Mino Raiola. This connection could facilitate negotiations, as Milan’s technical director Zlatan Ibrahimovic has a strong relationship with Pimenta. Despite no formal talks yet, the good rapport between Milan and Manchester City could pave the way for a deal. Meanwhile, Zaniolo remains a Plan B, with the club prepared to step in only if the player resolves his issues with Udinese.

The phrase ‘Tuttosport Leao out Foden in Milan keep Zaniolo on hold to pursue No 1 attacking target’ encapsulates Milan’s ambitious recruitment strategy. The club is aiming for a statement signing that would elevate their attacking prowess. With Foden’s versatility and creativity, he would be a marquee addition to Serie A. However, the financial complexities and competition from other clubs could derail the plan. For now, Milan fans must wait and see if the dream becomes reality.

In conclusion, AC Milan are navigating a delicate transfer market, balancing their pursuit of a dream signing with the need for pragmatic options. The ‘Tuttosport Leao out Foden in Milan keep Zaniolo on hold to pursue No 1 attacking target’ saga exemplifies the modern football landscape, where player swap deals and strategic patience define the window. As the pre-season unfolds, all eyes will be on Milanello to see which attacker will don the red and black.