Mihajlovic Says Focus is on Roma's Alessio Romagnoli

Milan are not done in the transfer window, needing at least a center back to bolster the club's defense. As has been the belief for weeks, the focus is on Roma center back Alessio Romagnoli.

Ahead of the Audi Cup, which begins in Munich Tuesday, new Milan manager Sinisa Mihajlovic admitted the club is focusing on the 20-year-old starlet, who spent last season with Mihajlovic on loan at Sampdoria. Mihajlovic said Romagnoli is a key target because he needs a left-footed player who knows his setup.

"Romagnoli? Clearly we're focused on him," Mihajlovic said.

The young Italian played in 30 matches for Sampdoria last season, starting 28 of them. He scored two goals and added two assists, and he was essential to Sampdoria's impressive defense. Under Mihajlovic, Sampdoria only surrendered 42 goals last season, its best mark since the 2009-10 season and a 20-goal turnaround from 2013-14.

At the moment, Milan is about four first-team players deep at center back. With no change from last season, Philippe Mexes, Cristian Zapata, Gabriel Paletta and Alex are the current options in the middle of defense. Milan has allowed 99 goals over the last two seasons, including 50 in 2014-15. In the three years prior, Milan allowed 24, 33 and 39 goals, respectively.

Milan has had a solid preseason so far. In five matches, Milan has only allowed four goals. The defense held Inter and Real Madrid scoreless during the International Champions Cup in China. Milan defeated Inter 1-0 and played to a scoreless draw with Real Madrid, but fell 10-9 on penalties.

The Rossoneri begin the Audi Cup against Bayern Munich Tuesday and will look to bolster the squad before Aug. 23 opening round of Serie A against Fiorentina.