Dutch sources: AC Milan pushing to sign 24-year-old Barcelona target

Ajax’s full-back Noussair Mazraoui is a man in demand. The Moroccan sees his current deal expiring at the end of the season and the Eredivise side is well aware that he has no intention of continuing at Johan Cruyff Arena beyond the ongoing campaign.

As a result, the young right-back has attracted plenty of suitors, including Barcelona and Borussia Dortmund, with Stefano Pioli’s Milan being the newest entrants.

The Rossoneri have, in fact, already made an official approach, with the Telegraaf reporting that the Serie A title challengers are not ready to back out yet.

As quoted by the publisher, Milan approached Mazraoui with a new and improved offer last week after their initial proposal was brushed by the player a few months back. 

Now, one might realize the Serie A team already has three right-backs in Davide Calabria, Pierre Kalulu, and Alessandro Florenzi, but it must be remembered that Florenzi is only on loan while Kalulu has been better in central areas, leaving Calabria the only viable option. 

All these comprehensive approaches made by Milan represents a massive threat to Barcelona, who are said to be in pole position to sign the full-back.

It’s no secret that the club president, Joan Laporta and his advisor Jordi Cruyff met with Mino Raiola in Monaco recently, and Mazraoui was on the agenda as part of the discussion. During the meeting, it was established that the Moroccan also has offers from the English Premier League, but the player is not prepared to move to England yet.

As of today, it’s uncertain as to when the defender will, in fact, make a decision on his future. But that’s understandable as Ajax are facing tough competition with PSV in Eredivise and are also running in the KNVB Cup. On top of that, their UEFA Champions League journey is still well on course.

It’s important to note that Mazraoui is someone Xavi likes a lot. In fact, Barcelona are only following the 24-year-old by order of Xavi since he believes a player of his quality arriving on a free transfer is an absolute steal.

But then again, Borussia Dortmund’s interest might as well make things difficult as the German club holds the reputation of churning the best out of young players.