What does Andrea Conti’s arrival mean for De Sciglio?

With the arrival of Andrea Conti, AC Milan head into the season with what is arguably their strongest backline in years.

A defence of Ricardo Rodriguez, Mateo Musacchio, Alessio Romagnoli and Andrea Conti is more than capable of providing defensive stability while adding width to the attack. The modern combination of bombarding full-backs and ball-playing centre-backs will be critical to playing a high-line and overloading the opposition half.

But what does that mean for Mattia De Sciglio?

The AC Milan graduate has spent his entire career at Milan and while things haven’t turned out as well for him as one would have hoped, he has certainly done enough to become highly coveted and a staple with the Azzurri. Capable of playing all across the backline in a 4-man and a 3-man set-up, De Sciglio remains a highly rated talent.

The player wants to leave for Juventus, with the clubs in agreement. However, Juventus’ first offer of €6 million is a pittance for a player instrumental to the success of both club and country. Milan was right to reject the initial offer, but with the full-back entering the final year of his contract, it might be wise on Milan’s part to make him untransferable and retain him in the squad.

Best case scenario? He stays, signs a new contract and offers Milan some necessary depth and leadership.

Worst case scenario? He helps Milan this season and moves to Juventus as a free agent.

If Juventus isn’t willing to improve the offer significantly, Milan should take its chance and run with it. Milan is more than able to challenge for the Scudetto this season, and even a shot at the Champions League might be enough for MDS to reconsider the project at the San Siro.