AC Milan were active right up until the final hours of the summer transfer window, searching desperately for defensive reinforcements. Following the departure of Malick Thiaw to Premier League side Newcastle United, the Rossoneri knew they had to move quickly to strengthen their backline.
At one point, Monaco defender Thilo Kehrer was firmly on Milan’s radar. However, with negotiations proving difficult and time running out, the Italian giants turned their focus elsewhere and eventually completed the signing of David Odogu from Wolfsburg.
Defensive Reinforcements Become a Priority
The exit of Malick Thiaw created an immediate void in Milan’s central defense. Stefano Pioli and the club’s management understood the risks of entering a long and demanding season without proper balance at the back. The Rossoneri explored several options across different leagues — from England to France — to find the right profile who could step in quickly.
Despite their efforts, not every target was attainable. With the transfer window ticking down, Milan faced the possibility of closing the summer market without any new defensive additions. That scenario was avoided on deadline day.
Milan Land Promising German Defender David Odogu
In the closing hours of the window, AC Milan confirmed the arrival of David Odogu, a highly rated 19-year-old center-back from Wolfsburg. The deal reportedly cost around €7 million plus an additional €3 million in performance-related bonuses, an investment seen as a smart long-term move for the club.
Odogu arrives in Serie A as one of Germany’s most exciting young defensive talents. Known for his composure, aerial strength, and ball-playing ability, he is expected to adapt quickly to Italian football’s tactical demands. Milan believe the teenager can develop into a cornerstone of their defense while also learning from the more experienced players in the squad.
With Odogu’s signing, Milan have restored depth in central defense, creating a balanced mix of youth and experience as they prepare for both domestic and European challenges.
Thilo Kehrer Was a Serious Target
Bеfоrе ѕеаlіng Odogu’s trаnѕfеr, Milan аlѕо made аn аррrоасh for Thіlо Kehrer, сurrеntlу with AS Mоnасо. The 27-уеаr-оld dеfеndеr hаѕ an іmрrеѕѕіvе réѕumé, having played fоr Paris Sаіnt-Gеrmаіn, Wеѕt Hаm Unіtеd, аnd the German national tеаm. Hіѕ vеrѕаtіlіtу аnd еxреrіеnсе аt the hіghеѕt lеvеl made him аn attractive орtіоn fоr thе Rоѕѕоnеrі.
However, negotiations did not progress. Monaco refused to entertain Milan’s proposals, determined to keep hold of Kehrer, who remains under contract with the Ligue 1 club until June 2028.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed the situation, reporting:
“AC Milan tried to sign Thilo Kehrer from Monaco, but their approaches were rejected. Monaco made it clear that the defender is not for sale.”
Looking Ahead
Although the Rossoneri missed out on Kehrer, the signing of David Odogu offers a fresh injection of talent into their defensive ranks. The young German is seen not only as a solution for the present but also as a long-term investment for the future of AC Milan.
With Serie A and the Champions League campaigns ahead, Milan fans will be eager to see how Odogu adapts to life at San Siro and whether the club’s gamble on youth pays off.
ALSO READ :
- SBOTOP: Szoboszlai Shines in Alexander-Arnold Role with Stunning Free-Kick as Arsenal Falter – Premier League Hits and Misses
- SBOTOP: Gary Neville Doubts Arsenal’s Mentality After Costly Premier League Loss at Anfield
- SBOTOP: Szoboszlai’s Stunning Free-Kick Downs Gunners Propels Reds to League Summit
