The 2015-16 season has been anything but easy-going for the Rossoneri.
From the appointment of Sinisa Mihajlovic, the big money splashed in summer and inconsistent performances has seen Milan sit eighth at the half-way point of the season. With the January window now open, Milan need to strengthen their side with fresh reinforcements in their push for a return to Europe.
In the past, Milan have made some interesting January signings with some being major hits such as Alexandre Pato, Luca Antonelli, Marc van Bommel and Mario Balotelli. However, historically, they have made some horrendous signings who have been major misses. These include Michael Essien, Salvatore Bocchetti, Cristian Zaccardo, Mattia Destro and Alessio Cerci.
This time around, with more money to spend and hopefully a learning curve for those involved in their transfer dealings, Milan could finally see an improvement in their winter signings.
Martin Caceres
The unique Uruguayan defender has been linked with a move to the Rossoneri. According to reports from Tuttosport, the Juventus centre-back has been edging closer to leaving the Old Lady and a move to Milan looks the most likely to materialise. Milan’s need for a consistent partner for Alessio Romagnoli makes the proposition more tempting for Caceres. This is due to spending most of his time among the substitutes for the Bianconeri. His speed, composure and tenacity in the tackle gives him the edge over many strikers, being a very uneasy player to match up against. He could be a much more viable partner than Alex, who is ageing and his lack of pace has been a major liability.
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Daniele Rugani
Another of Juve’s extensive list of strong centre-backs is the youngster, Daniele Rugani. Rugani, who impressed on loan last season at Empoli, has been anything but a regular fixture in the Juventus defence this season, so a loan may be manifested. Even though it would be highly unlikely for him to move permanently, the proposition of having Romagnoli and Rugani partnered in the heart of defence is an exciting prospect for many Italian football fans. Rugani could be tempted with a six-month move to Milan to partner his Azzurini team mate and his maturity and composure at a young age is his strongest quality. If Milan manage to sign him and Caceres, it would be the first time in a while Milan would be faced with a selection headache in the heart of defence. It is highly likely that both will be acquired in January with Caceres being the more likely.
Axel Witsel
One of the names that continues to bob up in discussion of a much needed central-midfielder for the Rossoneri, Witsel has been strongly linked since the offseason. The Belgian is exactly what Milan need in the centre of park. With Nigel De Jong heavily out of form and Riccardo Montolivo needing a consistent partner in midfield, Witsel is the man. He brings tenacity, a hard-working attitude and a strong ability to defend and get forward to support the attackers. This is something Milan have lacked with Andrea Bertolacci, Juraj Kucka and Andrea Poli failing to deliver in that role as of late. Zenit have slapped a $25 million price tag to his name and the proposition of a move is still on the cards if Galliani is willing to fork out the cash.
Ever Banega
The mercurial Argentinian international, who has impressed lately for Sevilla, presents Mihajlovic with a tasty option in midfield. The 27-year-old has been known for his unpredictability and a more attacking option in the centre of the park. Banega brings a different game to Witsel with a more attacking outlook, but still can play a box-to-box role. He is of a much higher quality than Kucka or Poli, yet Milan may be able to negotiate a reasonable price with Valencia. Milan should seriously consider a move for Banega due to his lively nature which will help spark a lethargic Rossoneri central-midfield duo. If Milan can get the deals for Banega and Witsel done, it will give the Rossoneri a midfield which has lacked serious quality for the past few seasons.
Franco Vazquez
The enigmatic Franco Vazquez, a late bloomer, provides Milan with an option to improve their wide areas. Milan have failed to find a consistent performer at right-midfield with Keisuke Honda and Alessio Cerci not providing enough creativity for the strikers, a major factor in their lack of goals. The need for Vazquez cannot be stressed enough. With Jeremy Menez also being a long-term casuality, Milan need to make a move for the Argentinian-born Azzurri player. He is a quick, mobile player who has the tendency to cut onto his left foot, which Mihajlovic wants from his wingers. Last season, he was one of the top assist getters in the league and is the player Milan are crying out for. Palermo have been stubborn in their stance over Vazquez with a heavy price tag needed to persuade Maurizio Zamparini to give up his prized possession. However, if Milan want to be serious about their ambitions they really need to look to bring him in as soon as possible.
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