The Italian transfer market is always a theatre of high drama, and for AC Milan, the summer of 2025 is no exception. With ambitious plans to reclaim domestic and European glory, the Rossoneri have just announced a significant acquisition: Christopher Nkunku, the versatile French international, has officially joined the club. While Nkunku`s arrival injects undeniable quality, the whispers from Milanello persist – the hunt for a prolific, traditional central striker is far from over, as manager Massimiliano Allegri seeks to perfect his offensive blueprint.
Christopher Nkunku: The New Jewel in Milan`s Crown
Christopher Nkunku`s journey to Milan culminates today, August 29, 2025, with medical examinations and the official signing of his contract. The deal, a straightforward €37 million from Chelsea without any performance-related bonuses, underscores Milan`s conviction in the player`s talent. Nkunku, signing a four-year contract, is set to earn an annual salary of €5 million, bringing the total financial commitment for the Rossoneri well over the remarkable €100 million mark. A substantial investment, indeed, for a player often described as a tactical chameleon.
For Milan fans, Nkunku`s arrival might evoke fond memories of another prolific Frenchman, Olivier Giroud. While they`ve shared the field for France, their styles differ. Nkunku is not your archetypal `number 9.` His strength lies in his incredible versatility, seamlessly operating as a second striker, an attacking midfielder, or even drifting wide. This tactical fluidity, combined with his experience across France, Germany, and England, makes him a formidable asset. His trophy cabinet already boasts 14 titles, including a Club World Cup and the 2025 Conference League with Chelsea. Before his move to London, Nkunku was the Bundesliga`s top scorer with RB Leipzig, a testament to his undeniable goal-scoring prowess when given the freedom to roam. While his Premier League goal tally wasn`t eye-watering, he`s a player whose true value extends beyond mere statistics; he creates, he assists, he disrupts, and perhaps most importantly, he brings a certain panache to the pitch. Milan, it seems, has acquired a player who promises to add more than just goals – he promises a spectacle.
The Enduring Quest for a Pure `Number 9`
Despite the high-profile signing of Nkunku, the Milan leadership, under the guidance of manager Massimiliano Allegri, acknowledges a lingering void. The departure of Olivier Giroud left a distinct gap: that of a traditional, robust central striker – a true “bomber d`area”. Allegri has been vocal about his desire for such a player, someone who thrives in the penalty box and consistently puts the ball in the back of the net.
This ongoing search has reportedly narrowed down to a select few, with two names dominating the headlines:
- Artem Dovbyk: The Ukrainian international, currently plying his trade at Roma, has quickly established himself as a prime target. In his debut Serie A season, Dovbyk impressively scored 17 goals. His previous stint at Girona was even more remarkable, yielding 24 goals in just 36 La Liga appearances. Dovbyk`s profile aligns perfectly with Allegri`s request for a prolific, penalty-box-oriented striker. Rumours suggest Roma might be open to a sale, or even a loan, should the right offer materialize. His consistent scoring record makes him an attractive proposition for a team seeking a guaranteed source of goals.
- Santiago Gimenez: The Mexican striker has also garnered attention and praise from Allegri. However, his characteristics are said to differ from the traditional `number 9` Milan is prioritizing. While a talented attacker, his role might be more nuanced, potentially leading to questions about his fit as the primary central striker. The unpredictable nature of the transfer window means Gimenez`s future is subject to further developments, especially if Milan manages to secure another forward. Interestingly, there`s also talk of a different “Jimenez” (not Santiago) being discussed between Roma, Como, and Bournemouth – a testament to how convoluted the market can get when names are similar. For Milan, *that* specific Jimenez is reportedly not on their radar.
“If I ever asked for Vlahovic? No, because Dusan is a Juventus player. With the club, I spoke about the characteristics of players and what we can do. If players with different characteristics arrive, we will manage somehow…” Allegri`s measured response, devoid of direct demands for rival players, subtly underscores his focus on specific tactical attributes rather than headline-grabbing names. The message is clear: deliver goals, and we`ll figure out the rest.
Milan`s Ambitious Offensive Blueprint Unfolding
The acquisition of Nkunku is a bold statement, signalling Milan`s intent to build a dynamic and unpredictable attack. His multifaceted skills will undoubtedly provide Allegri with a wealth of tactical options. However, the club`s continued, fervent pursuit of a dedicated central striker like Dovbyk demonstrates a clear understanding of the need for balance – blending Nkunku`s creative flair with a consistent, reliable goal-poaching instinct. The Rossoneri are crafting an offensive line designed not just to entertain, but to dominate.
As the final days of the transfer window tick by, the anticipation among fans grows. Will Milan succeed in securing the coveted `number 9` to complement Nkunku and complete Allegri`s ideal attacking setup? The answers will soon be revealed on the hallowed pitches of Serie A, where every new signing, every goal, and every victory will contribute to the next thrilling chapter in AC Milan`s storied history.
Murray Blackwood