Milan Choose Estupinan, Stalling at Right-Back | OneFootball

Milan have handpicked Pervis Estupinan to replace Theo Hernandez at left-back. They are in advanced talks with Brighton. The Premier League side initially asked for €20M, but the final fee will be slightly lower. The teams are finalizing the fixed sum and the add-ons, Mediaset reports.

The defender had informed the team he wanted a new experience in previous months. The Seagulls have already signed his heir, Maxim De Cuyper, who was on the Rossoneri, Roma, and Atalanta’s radar in the past.

Estupinan is the first concrete target for Milan at the position, and most likely the last. Udinese brought him to Europe from LDU Quito back in the day, but he never spent time in Italy. He went out on loan at Granada and Watford. He bloomed at Osasuna and also played for Villarreal before heading to the Premier League, where he has totaled 4 goals and 11 assists in 84 matches.

Instead, the Rossoneri haven’t made up their mind on the other flank. They sent their doctors to Spain for a preliminary check-up on Marc Pubill, who had knee issues in the past. Either for those concerns or because of his price tag, they appear to have moved on. He’s closer to Wolverhampton. Instead, they have lodged an inquiry for Verona’s Jackson Tchatchoua, who’s worth about €12M.

Our Take on Milan and Estupinan

Even though it was their most glaring hole, they were never going to make a splash, so it’s a perfectly fine choice given his energy and experience. However, they could have gone more physical and defensive-minded to free up Rafael Leao. On the other hand, they are used to leaning on that wing, so another proactive contributor is welcome.