A Fan's Perspective: Should Milan keep De Sciglio?

The rumour mill won't stop churning transfer stories about Mattia De Sciglio; it's either a move to Juventus or some other European team like Liverpool or Barcelona. The full-back is a hot commodity and for good reason—not only is De Sciglio one of the most talented players around, he's only got an year left on his contract with the Rossoneri. Inspite of a mediocre campaign, Milan have managed to keep their doors to Europe open and the Italian has had a huge role to play as captain of the first team in the absence of Ignazio Abate.

Having risen from the youth ranks at Milan, Mattia is capable of playing across the back-line and as a wingback on either side. His ability to play with both feet have allowed him to be equally exceptional on either flank. However, with the rise of Davide Calabria and the potential arrival of a left-back, De Sciglio seems almost destined to leave the red and blacks, in favour of the old lady in the upcoming transfer window.

But is there really no room for the Italian?

Alessio Romagnoli has been exceptional in defence for Milan, and it is as much a shame as it is testimony to his ability, that Milan have crumbled in the business-end of the season like a house of cards with the Italian centre-back side-lined due to injury. However, Milan have failed to provide the talented central defender with a steady partner in defence—the duo of Zapata and Paletta have been underwhelming to say the least, with the former making high profile mistakes on the pitch and the latter managing to get himself sent off just about every fifth game this season. While Paletta is an excellent complement to Romagnoli, his discipline, or lack thereof, have forced Milan's hand in the transfer market.

However, isn't it more viable to just use an option that's already at the club's disposal? Even with Gustavo Gomez's arrival this season, Milan are short of a couple of defenders assuming the club recognises the deficiencies of the likes of Zapata and Paletta. With Villarreal man Mateo Musacchio's name being thrown around, Milan still need one more defender, and that man could be none other than De Sciglio.

The versatile defender is capable of playing as a centre-back, and his ability on the ball will be something that should complement Romagnoli quite well. De Sciglio is known for his excellent defensive and offensive work, and by placing the two in the heart of defence, Milan will be using their best defenders to secure the goal, in front of Donnarumma.

While the season is almost over, and Mattia looks set to depart, it might be in the best interest of the club to retain the player, and push for a spot in the Champions League next season, which should give the young Italian an opportunity to reassess and hopefully extend with the Rossoneri.