The increasing number of reports suggesting AC Milan’s interest in signing Assan Ouedraogo is noteworthy. Calciomercato.com is the latest source to confirm that Milan is genuinely pursuing Ouedraogo as a potential signing. Scouts Geoffrey Moncada and Antonio D’Ottavio have been closely monitoring him for approximately 18 months, and their reports have consistently been highly positive.
At just 17 years old, Ouedraogo is already an established starter for Schalke 04, with nine appearances and one goal in the 2. Bundesliga in the 2023-24 season. Milan is attracted to him not only for his exceptional personality but also for his imposing physique and strong technical skills. He excels in both short passing and long balls, displays quick movement across the midfield, and possesses a vision of the game that, while already promising, has room for improvement to reach a senior player’s level.
Ouedraogo aligns with Milan’s philosophy, which focuses on securing young talents early to avoid higher asking prices and intense competition. Discussions with Ouedraogo’s representatives began months ago, with Milan proposing the possibility of him featuring in the first team within a couple of years and a potential loan arrangement in the meantime.
Before scheduling a meeting with Schalke 04, Milan is awaiting the approval of Ouedraogo’s family, emphasizing the need for a patient approach due to intense competition for the player’s signature. The main challenge for Milan lies in the interest of other clubs, particularly Bayern Munich, RB Leipzig, and Liverpool, who have already initiated their pursuit of Assan Ouedraogo.
Bayern Munich, known for their appeal to young German talents, poses a significant threat. Schalke may be willing to negotiate a transfer fee of €7-8 million, as opposed to Ouedraogo’s €20 million release clause, to avoid the risk of losing him for free.
This situation has put Milan on high alert, and further developments are expected in the coming days.