Milan pull out of Zaniolo race as Bournemouth look to complete transfer

AC Milan have pulled out of the race to sign AS Roma forward Nicolo Zaniolo, according to Sky Italia.

Zaniolo looks destined to leave the Stadio Olimpico this month after failing to extend his stay with the Giallorossi beyond 2024.

The Rossoneri held a long-term interest in the Italy international and have been tracking his development since last season.

They had shortlisted him as a possible replacement for Portuguese star Rafael Leao who is attracting interest from Premier League duo Chelsea and Manchester City.

Milan were one of several clubs firmly in the mix to take Zaniolo away from Rome but the Serie A league leaders have now pulled out of the race for his signature.

Stefano Pioli’s side are not the most financially buoyant club around, and they have deemed Roma’s asking price for the Italian too much.

North London duo Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal are also keen on signing Zaniolo, but Bournemouth have positioned themselves as an unlikely destination for the Italian.

Freshly backed by American investor Bill Foley, the Cherries have submitted an offer worth €30 million plus bonuses.

Milan had asked Roma for 24 hours to understand if they can match Bournemouth’s offer, but they have now communicated their withdrawal to their Serie A rivals and Zaniolo’s representatives.

Zaniolo wanted the move to San Siro Stadium and was initially sceptical about joining Bournemouth, who are firmly in the Premier League relegation battle. 

They are 18th in the table but level on points with Wolverhampton Wanderers, who are just one place ahead and one point behind 14th-place Leicester City.

However, following Milan’s withdrawal, Zaniolo is now reportedly considering an offer from the Cherries, and a deal could soon be completed.

Milan are still in the market for attacking reinforcements and are still considering a deal to sign Hakim Ziyech from Chelsea.

The Morocco international is subject to interest from several clubs, including Newcastle United and Everton. Roma are also tracking Ziyech as he could leave Stamford Bridge this month.