AC Milan are reportedly emerging as a potential destination for Manchester City defender Kyle Walker, who has expressed interest in exploring opportunities abroad. While Milan’s interest signals their intent to strengthen their squad, there are still significant hurdles to overcome before any deal can materialize.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola confirmed Walker’s desire to assess his options during a press conference on Saturday. “If he wants to explore, now it is a question of the market,” Guardiola said. “Kyle is an incredible player, with an incredible physicality. He is a top-class player. When he has focus, he is unstoppable as a right-back. I never see a player with this physical condition in my career. He is fit and can play one, two, three, four years as a professional.”
Walker, 33, still has 18 months left on his current City contract, making his situation a complex one. AC Milan, looking to bolster their defense, are interested in securing Walker’s services but reportedly favor a loan deal. In contrast, Walker is pushing for a permanent move to ensure long-term stability as he approaches the twilight of his career.
For Milan, a loan deal would align with their strategy of limiting financial risk while evaluating the player’s impact on the team. However, Walker’s wage demands and his desire for a more permanent solution could complicate negotiations. Additionally, City may be reluctant to agree to a loan arrangement for a player of Walker’s caliber without assurances of a future transfer fee.
Walker’s decision could hinge on Milan’s ability to meet his expectations for a permanent deal. Meanwhile, Guardiola has made it clear that the club will not stand in Walker’s way should he decide to leave. “He has to decide, not me,” Guardiola reiterated, emphasizing the player’s agency in determining his future.
As the January transfer window heats up, all eyes will be on Milan and Walker to see if they can find common ground.