AC Milan is making bold moves in the January transfer window, targeting two high-profile additions: Kyle Walker and Joao Felix. These potential signings reflect the club’s ambition to strengthen its squad and compete at the highest level both in Serie A and on the European stage.
Kyle Walker: Nearing the Finish Line
Kyle Walker is on the brink of joining Milan on a loan deal worth €1 million, with an option to buy for €5 million. If the deal goes through, the English defender would sign a contract through 2027, making this his first stint outside England. The six-month loan acts as a trial period for Walker to adapt to Serie A and Milan’s evolving style under head coach Sergio Conceição.
Walker’s winning mentality and vast experience were key factors in Milan’s decision to prioritize him. Conceição, who has repeatedly emphasized the importance of defensive solidity, believes Walker’s arrival will bring leadership and stability to the backline. Milan has also structured the financial terms to fit its budget, spreading his wages over the duration of the contract to match his current salary at Manchester City.
The imminent signing of Walker effectively ends Milan’s pursuit of Marcus Rashford. Italian league rules allow only one British player to be registered per season, and with Rashford’s high salary demands and preference for Barcelona, the Rossoneri opted to focus on shoring up their defense.
Joao Felix: The Offensive Priority
With Rashford no longer in the equation, Milan has shifted its focus to Joao Felix, a versatile forward personally requested by Conceição. The Portuguese star’s ability to play as a playmaker, left winger in a 4-2-3-1, or second striker in a 4-4-2 makes him an ideal fit for Milan’s tactical flexibility.
Joao Felix, represented by Jorge Mendes—who also manages Conceição—is now Milan’s top offensive target. While acquiring Felix outright is financially challenging due to Chelsea’s €52 million valuation following his move from Atletico Madrid, Milan is negotiating a loan deal with a buyout clause.
Felix has had a mixed tenure at Chelsea, where he is not a guaranteed starter under Enzo Maresca. Despite this, the 23-year-old has managed seven goals in 19 appearances this season. Chelsea’s own transfer activity could influence Felix’s future, with the club pursuing players like Alejandro Garnacho and Jamie Bynoe-Gittens, as well as exploring a potential swap involving Mathys Tel and Christopher Nkunku.
Milan’s Plan for Felix
Milan’s strategy is to secure Joao Felix on a six-month loan, with an option to extend for another year and an eventual buyout clause set at €35 million in the summer of 2026. With Chelsea limited to just one international loan slot, Milan is eager to finalize the deal quickly to avoid losing out.
Reports suggest that Felix is intrigued by the idea of joining Milan, and the Rossoneri are intensifying their efforts to close the deal. After initial discussions, the club is ramping up negotiations to ensure Felix becomes a key addition to their attacking lineup.
The Vision Moving Forward
The potential signings of Walker and Felix demonstrate Milan’s strategic approach to balancing their squad. Walker would provide defensive stability and leadership, while Felix’s creativity and attacking versatility could elevate Milan’s offensive play.
With the January transfer window in full swing, Milan is racing against time to finalize these deals. For Rossoneri fans, these signings represent more than just new faces—they signal the club’s continued ambition to return to the summit of Italian and European football.
