AC Milan are looking to freshen up their squad in the summer and have set their sights on Chelsea winger Hakim Ziyech.
According to Calciomercato, the Italian side are lining up a loan move for the Morocco international this summer.
Ziyech joined Chelsea last summer for £38 million after a hugely impressive spell at Ajax. But, a combination of injuries and poor form prevented him from making the desired impact at Stamford Bridge.
The Moroccan made 39 appearances for Chelsea in all competitions, scoring six goals and providing four assists. He has been unable to cement his spot in the side under Thomas Tuchel and could be shipped out this summer.
Milan, meanwhile, are looking to replace Hakan Calhanoglu, who joined arch-rivals Inter on a free this summer. The Rossoneri have reportedly identified Ziyech as the ideal option. The 28-year-old has four years left on his current contract.
Should Chelsea part ways with Hakim Ziyech?
Following a mediocre debut season in the Premier League, Ziyech has fallen below the likes of Mason Mount, Kai Havertz and Christian Pulisic in the pecking order. Moreover, with Chelsea on the lookout for attacking reinforcements, Ziyech might be surplus to requirements.
AC Milan are 'pushing' to sign Hakim Ziyech on loan from Chelsea with an option to buy.
Ziyech 'wants to know Thomas Tuchel's intentions' before making a decision on his future.
– @cmdotcom #CFC pic.twitter.com/HDjy29VIrg
— FootballPurists (@FootballPurist_) July 23, 2021
AC Milan have a strong relationship with Chelsea, having recently signed Olivier Giroud, and thus, will fancy their chances of landing Ziyech.
A move to Milan could help the Moroccan rekindle his best form. The 28-year-old has fantastic technical ability. His quick feet and close control help him dribble out of tight situations and he is also a gifted passer, who can unlock defences with pinpoint through balls.
Despite his struggles last season, he averaged 1.5 key passes and 0.8 dribbles per game. In his last season at Ajax, those numbers stood at 3.7 and 2.6 respectively.
Versatility is Ziyech’s calling card. The Moroccan primarily plays on the right flank, but he is just as comfortable in the No. 10 role. He also has a fantastic left foot and can unleash dangerous shots from distance.
He is also a fantastic crosser. With strikers like Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Olivier Giroud to aim at Milan, Ziyech should thrive.
The former Ajax star doesn’t shirk his defensive responsibilities either. He likes to press opponents high up the pitch and win back possession, as well as tracking back to help out his fullbacks.
Milan finished a whopping 12 points behind Inter last season and Ziyech’s arrival can certainly help them narrow that gap. A loan move for a 28-year old would certainly not be the best business from Chelsea’s perspective, but should he impress, they will be able to sell him next summer.