AC Milan have reached an agreement with Manchester City to sign their captain, Kyle Walker, on loan for the remainder of the season. The deal includes an option for the Italian club to purchase the defender during the summer transfer window.
Walker, a key figure in Manchester City’s success, will now head to Italy for his medical examination. The full-back has expressed a preference for a move to Serie A over a switch to the Saudi Pro League, where he was initially rumored to go.
Walker’s City Legacy
Having joined City from Tottenham in 2017 for £50 million, Walker has been instrumental in the club’s dominance under Pep Guardiola. The 34-year-old has been part of all six Premier League titles won during Guardiola’s tenure.
Walker, who has made 316 appearances for City, was voted joint-captain by his teammates at the start of the 2023-24 season. He was included in the club’s five-man leadership group, a testament to his influence both on and off the pitch.
Despite his contributions, the right-back last played for City on 4 January in a match against West Ham. Following that game, he informed Guardiola of his desire to explore opportunities abroad.
AC Milan’s winter moves
AC Milan’s move for Walker comes amidst reports linking them to Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford. However, due to Italian registration rules, Milan can only sign one player from the UK during this transfer window.
The Italian side’s addition of Walker bolsters their defense as they aim to compete domestically and in European competitions. Walker’s vast experience, including 93 caps for England, is expected to strengthen Milan’s squad significantly.
Meanwhile, Manchester City have been active in the transfer market, spending approximately £123 million in January. Their acquisitions include Egypt forward Omar Marmoush from Eintracht Frankfurt for £59 million, along with Vitor Reis from Palmeiras for £30 million and Abdukodir Khusanov from Lens for £33.6 million.
