AC Milan made new contact with Chelsea on Friday over a potential deal for out-of-favour winger Hakim Ziyech, according to Calciomercato.
The Italian outlet claims that as things stand, Brugge’s Charles de Ketelaere remains Milan’s first-choice offensive target this summer.
However, despite continued negotiations, Milan are reportedly still struggling to reach an agreement with the Belgian club.
In response, Milan are said to begin looking for other alternatives, including Chelsea’s Ziyech.
The Serie A champions have reportedly been interested in the former Ajax star for some time, and Calciomercato adds that they have made another inquiry over Ziyech’s availability this summer.
The report mentions that Ziyech is no longer in Thomas Tuchel’s plans ahead of the new season, so Chelsea could be open to selling the winger for an acceptable offer.
It remains unclear whether the Blues would accept a loan offer with an option to buy, which Milan have reportedly offered, but the Italian club are said to be ready to improve their bid.
If Milan fail to land De Ketelaere, the club are ready to propose an “expensive” loan with an obligation to buy, rather than an option, after a year, Calciomercato adds.
Ziyech made just 14 starts (23 appearances in total) in the Premier League last season and, like several other Chelsea attackers, was used as a rotation player by Tuchel.
Raheem Sterling’s arrival will likely have an impact on the 29-year-old’s role in the team too.
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