GdS: The key to freedom – Milan view Fofana as Reijnders’ facilitator | OneFootball

It was clear throughout last season that Tijjani Reijnders was being limited by his defensive duties, and even though there were no outstanding issues, if AC Milan are to see the best version of the Dutchman, an addition is needed.

Having a midfield with all the attacking quality in the world would be fantastic in some respects, but in 80% of the game, it would be a hindrance, and that motive is the same if reversed, in the sense that a completely defensive midfield would do well in some aspects, but be woeful in others.

Therefore, it is vital that any midfield, and in turn, squad, must be balanced correctly, and this was not the case for large parts of the last season.

As a result, it is vital to invest in different aspects of the midfield, which is what Milan are looking to do in the mercato. We have already seen the links between the club and Adrien Rabiot, but he is not the primary target, instead, that is Youssouf Fofana.

The Frenchman is adored by the Rossoneri’s management, and according to Gazzetta dello Sport (via Milan News) they see him as the key to unlocking Reijnders’ true potential.

Having a more defensively-minded player like Fofana would mean the Dutchman has less defensive responsibility, so he would gain extra freedom to progress up the pitch. However, it would also give extra freedom to the entire team if there was a new shield in front of the defence.