Arsenal star still wanted by Milan after Badiashile rejection

AC Milan are still interested in signing Arsenal defender Jakub Kiwior after failing in their pursuit of Chelsea star Benoit Badiashile.

Reports from Italy suggested that Badiashile was seen as a key transfer target for the Rossoneri as they look to bolster their backline amid interest in Malick Thiaw.

Milan reportedly lodged a loan with an option buy offer for the Frenchman, but Chelsea quickly rebuffed that approach and informed the Serie A giants that Badiashile will not be leaving the club.

The 22-year-old only joined the Blues from AS Monaco in January, while he has recently returned to full fitness after missing the opening months of the campaign due to injury.

However, with news that signing Badiashile isn’t an option, Milan are set to continue their pursuit of Polish international Kiwior, who has been unable to become a regular starter at Arsenal following his €25 million move from Spezia at the start of this year.

Kiwior to Milan?

Milan’s interest in Kiwior was first reported at the beginning of November and following their failure to convince Chelsea to offload Badiashile, the Arsenal man is seen as a viable January target.

According to Calciomercato, Milan will look to sign two new defenders during the winter window and Kiwior is top of their transfer wishlist.

The report states that an initial loan deal is Milan’s preference, but Arsenal remain unconvinced over a potential deal. The Gunners are currently without Jurrien Timber due to injury, meaning their defensive depth would suffer if Kiwior left mid-season.

Bournemouth’s Lloyd Kelly is reportedly seen as another option for Milan, but that is a deal that could happen next summer rather than in January. Andoni Iroala’s side don’t want to lose the Englishman next month and Milan would prefer to sign him on a free transfer in July 2024.