Milan tempted by De Zerbi for two reasons – the obstacle

A number of different names continue to float around as potential options for AC Milan’s next head coach and one that refuses to go away is Roberto De Zerbi.

According to this morning’s edition of Corriere della Sera (via MilanNews), Milan are intrigued by the idea of hiring De Zerbi for two reasons above all, but it will not be a simple pursuit if they decide to try for him.

The first factor that tempts Milan is that he is a young coach with innovative ideas, who gives a precise identity to his team. Brighton have been widely praised for the way they play despite the players available, and he led them to the knockout stages in their first European campaign.

The second temptation is more sentimental, because it would be a return home. As a player De Zerbi came through the youth academy with the Rossoneri and he has never hidden his attachment to the club.

Where’s the catch? De Zerbi can only be acquired upon payment of the €15m release clause that is built into his contract with Brighton. Milan are not willing to pay such a large amount for a coach, in line with their policies on sustainable spending.

Therefore, it could be that De Zerbi remains a dream for the time being, unless Brighton – who have struggled a bit more in the Italian’s second season – were willing to negotiate that amount.