Reports filtering out of Italy suggest that AC Milan has made a concrete move in the summer transfer market, formally submitting an offer for promising young right-back Guela Doue. Currently plying his trade with French Ligue 1 side RC Strasbourg, the 21-year-old defender has caught the eye of several clubs, prompting Milan to make their intentions known.
According to credible sources including La Gazzetta dello Sport in Italy and L`Equipe in France, Milan`s initial bid stands at €15 million. However, securing Doue`s signature appears to be no straightforward affair. Strasbourg reportedly values the player closer to the €20 million mark. This valuation represents a considerable uplift from the €6.5 million plus bonuses they paid to acquire him from Rennes just last summer, indicating a potential quick and profitable return on their investment.
Milan`s interest stems from a clear need to reinforce their options on the right side of defence. The departure of Kyle Walker-Peters following the conclusion of his loan spell has created a vacancy, and the Rossoneri management views Doue as a suitable candidate to provide depth and competition. The plan is reportedly for Doue to rotate with the club`s existing young right-back, Alex Jimenez. Doue is specifically noted for his perceived defensive strengths, offering a different profile compared to the more forward-thinking Jimenez. This strategic rotation is seen as key under the tactical approach anticipated from the coaching staff. Meanwhile, the future of Emerson Royal at San Siro remains uncertain, with the player reportedly out of favour.
Adding a layer of complexity to the negotiation is the reported interest from other clubs. Premier League sides Chelsea and Sunderland are said to be monitoring Doue`s situation, potentially setting the stage for a bidding war. German club Eintracht Frankfurt is also credited with keeping tabs on the young defender. For those following footballing family trees, Guela is also the older brother of Paris Saint-Germain`s highly-rated winger, Desire Doue.
As Milan waits for Strasbourg`s response and keeps a watchful eye on competing suitors, the transfer saga for Guela Doue promises to be one to follow closely. Milan has laid down their marker with a €15 million offer, but whether that will be enough to prise him away from Strasbourg – or if another club will step up – remains to be seen in the unfolding drama of the summer window.
