Super-agent Jorge Mendes is working to engineer a move that could see AC Milan beat Manchester United to the signing of Brighton left-back Pervis Estupinan.
With the Ecuadorian keen to leave the Premier League, Milan has made their opening bid – and talks are progressing.
Milan Transfer News: Estupinan Pushing for Move
Following Theo Hernandez’s move to Al Hilal, Milan has turned their attention to Estupinan as their top left-back target. The Rossoneri submitted an opening offer of €14 million plus bonuses, according to Gianluca Di Marzio and Calciomercato.com.
That bid is not expected to be enough for Brighton, who value the 27-year-old much higher. However, Estupinan’s desire to join Milan has triggered the involvement of Jorge Mendes, who is now actively mediating between the clubs to help close the gap and get the deal done quickly.
Manchester United have also shown strong interest in the Ecuador international, but Milan are hoping to act faster – especially with pre-season beginning soon and Estupinan eager to leave.
How Much Does Brighton Want for Estupinan?
Brighton paid €17.8 million to sign Estupinan from Villarreal in 2022, and the defender is under contract until 2027. That gives the Seagulls leverage in negotiations, even though they’ve already brought in Maxim De Cuyper from Club Brugge as a likely replacement.
Brighton values the Ecuadorian at €40 million, so Milan will need to increase their offer significantly for a compromise to be made between the clubs.
Estupinan played 36 times in all competitions last season, contributing a goal and an assist. Though his attacking output isn’t flashy, his work rate and overlapping presence make him an ideal fit for Milan’s system, especially after the departure of Hernandez.
Jorge Mendes’ presence in the talks could prove to be a crucial factor. He has facilitated numerous major deals across Europe and has a history of moving high-profile players quickly. Now, Milan is counting on his influence to help get this one over the line.
Milan Transfer Plans: Estupinan Priority, But Alternatives on Standby
While Estupinan is the priority, Milan are also tracking Eintracht Frankfurt’s Nathaniel Brown and Almeria’s Marc Pubill as potential alternatives. Brown’s deal could be complicated due to cost, while Pubill’s valuation is close to €15m.
Max Allegri has revamped the midfield this summer with the additions of Luka Modric and Samuele Ricci, although Ardon Jashari’s move to Milan is on hold.
Elsewhere, Bologna have returned with a new offer for Tommaso Pobega, proposing a paid loan of €1m with a €7m obligation to buy based on achievable performance clauses.
And in attack, Milan have reportedly asked Manchester United about Rasmus Højlund, though no formal negotiations have started.
With Estupinan open to the move and Brighton willing to sell at the right price, Milan’s chances may rest on Mendes’ ability to bring the two sides together before a Premier League rival swoops in.
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