Matteo Gabbia is set to return to AC Milan in the coming days, with the Rossoneri facing a defensive crisis. The centre-back was on loan at Villarreal, and will end his loan spell early to make up the numbers for Stefano Pioli for the coming months.
The LaLiga side have signed Eric Bailly on a free transfer to replace Gabbia, with the former Manchester United defender leaving Besiktas to return to Villarreal. Gabbia’s presence will be important in helping Milan deal with the January and February fixtures, since Fikayo Tomori, Pierre Kalulu and Malick Thiaw are ruled out until next month at the earliest.
Matteo Gabbia returns to AC Milan; new defender to follow?
The AC Milan youth product was in the squad when the team won the Serie A title two years ago. But a lack of playing time forced him to go out on loan in Spain. And now, he will have the chance to make a huge impact for the Rossoneri with their defensive options restricted.
Milan could also recruit a new central defender alongside Matteo Gabbia on loan. Clement Lenglet has been rumoured as a possible option, with Thilo Kehrer of West Ham United and Nordi Mukiele of PSG also linked.
The new sporting directors will have to make some key decisions in January, since they need to compete not only domestically but also in the Europa League.
