AC Milan transfer news: Three reasons Uche could replace Rafael Leao in Italy

Super Eagles star Christantus Uche has emerged as a transfer target for Italian heavyweights AC Milan ahead of the summer transfer window, Afrik-Foot reports.

The 23-year-old faces a major decision over his future this summer after returning to Getafe following an underwhelming loan spell at Premier League side Crystal Palace.

Uche joined the Eagles on loan last summer with high expectations after impressing in Spain. However, things did not go as planned, as he endured a difficult spell at Selhurst Park.

Although he showed glimpses of his quality whenever he was handed an opportunity, the Nigerian midfielder struggled to convince manager Oliver Glasner and was mostly used as a substitute before he was left out of the squad for the final few months of the season.

According to Footy-Africa, Uche has attracted interest from the likes of Real Betis and Everton, while AC Milan are ready to step up their pursuit as they look for potential replacements for Rafael Leao, who could leave the club this summer.

The Portuguese forward is keen on a move to the Premier League, and AC Milan are not expected to stand in his way if they receive a suitable offer. Uche is already lined up as a replacement and there are several reasons why the Italian giants’ interest in Uche could be genuine.

Christantus Uche’s versatility

While Leao has primarily operated as a left winger throughout his time at AC Milan, Uche would offer the club more versatility due to his ability to play in several positions across attack and also in midfield.

The 23-year-old can operate on the left wing as a direct replacement for Leao, while he can also be deployed as a centre-forward, a role he performed well in during his time at Crystal Palace.

Uche is also capable of playing as an attacking midfielder and can also feature in central midfield when required. His versatility would provide multiple options across different areas of the pitch and would make him a valuable addition to the squad.

With AC Milan’s new coach Rúben Amorim favouring a three-at-the-back system, Uche could fit into several roles and would also remain useful even if Amorim opts to switch to a four-man defence as well.

Work-rate and physicality suits Amorim’s system

Uche is known for his energy, work rate and physicality, which would make him a strong fit for Amorim’s preferred 3-4-3 system.

His pace and willingness to work without the ball could also allow him to operate as a wing-back if needed. Unlike Leao whose strongest qualities are in attack, Uche offers more defensive discipline and could contribute more consistently when his side are out of possession.

Despite his limited playing time last season, Uche’s defensive numbers were very encouraging. His ability to win duels and cover ground could make him a useful option in Amorim’s demanding system.

Cheaper option for AC Milan

Another major factor in AC Milan’s interest could be Uche’s affordability. The Nigerian midfielder is valued at around €12 million, although AC Milan could potentially negotiate a fee in that region or even lower due to Getafe’s financial difficulties.

By contrast, they could sell Leao for around €60 million this summer, which would allow the club to use part of the money from his departure to strengthen other key areas of the squad.

Uche would also command lower wages than Leao, which could help Milan reduce their salary bill.

With interest still growing and AC Milan very keen on securing his signature, Uche could soon find himself heading to Italy for the next phase of his career and a move there would offer him another opportunity to prove that he can perform at the highest level.