AC Milan step up talks for 18-year-old Serbian striker Andrej Kostić, seen as a long-term investment for the future
AC Milan are once again turning their attention to Serbia’s most exciting young attacking talent. The Rossoneri have reignited negotiations with Partizan Belgrade for Andrej Kostić, an 18-year-old striker widely regarded in the Balkans as the “new Dušan Vlahović.”
After initial contacts in December, Milan have now gone back on the offensive with the clear intention of bringing Kostić to Milanello during the January transfer window. An offer in the region of €4–5 million has already been presented, and the club is waiting for an official response from Partizan.
Who is Andrej Kostić?
Born in 2007, Kostić is a modern center-forward who can operate both as a traditional No.9 or as a supporting striker. Despite limited playing time this season, he is already Partizan’s second-highest scorer, a remarkable statistic considering his age and role within the squad.
The comparison with Dušan Vlahović is not casual. The two players share the same agent, and like Vlahović at Fiorentina, Kostić stands out for his physical presence, finishing ability, and maturity beyond his years. Milan scouts have been following him closely for months, convinced that his development curve mirrors that of other Serbian strikers who later exploded on the European stage.
Italian fans may already remember him: on September 5, Kostić scored against Italy in the Italy–Montenegro Under-21 match in La Spezia, opening the scoring before the Azzurrini turned the game around through Lipani and Koleosho.
Milan’s plan: patience and progression
Milan’s project for Kostić is clear and structured. If the deal goes through, the Serbian striker would initially join Milan Futuro, the club’s U23 side, allowing him to adapt gradually to Italian football, tactics, and physical demands.
From there, the goal would be to earn opportunities under Massimiliano Allegri, who has already shown a willingness to integrate young talents when they prove ready. Milan see Kostić not as an immediate solution, but as a strategic investment—a player who could grow internally and potentially become a first-team option in the coming seasons.
Waiting for Partizan’s answer
Partizan, aware of Kostić’s potential and market value, are carefully evaluating Milan’s proposal. The Serbian club know they hold one of the most promising forwards in their academy, but they also understand that January may be the right moment to cash in, especially with strong interest from a club of Milan’s stature.
For now, the Rossoneri are confident but cautious. Talks are ongoing, and a response from Belgrade is expected soon. What is clear is that Milan are once again investing early in elite talent, hoping to shape the next star before the rest of Europe fully catches on.
