Young Boys have rejected AC Milan's opening bid for Zachary Athekame, with the defender eyed as an alternative to Strasbourg target Guela Doue.

• AC Milan's negotiations for Guela Doue hit roadblock
• See Zachary Athekame as replacement
• Young Boys reject the first bid

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  WHAT HAPPENED

  According to , Milan's initial bid of €7 million for Athekame has been rejected as it didn't match Young Boy's €10m asking price. The clubs are not far apart in the player's valuation and the Serie A club believe they can get the deal done soon. The Italian side scouted Athekame after not being able to find an agreement to sign Strasbourg's Doue.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Athekame was signed by Young Boys in 2024 from Swiss second division side Neuchatel Xamax. The 20-year-old didn't take time to cement his position as an integral part of the team as he played 43 games across all competitions, scoring a goal and providing three assists. The right-back also played 10 games for Switzerland's U-21 team. The Italian club appreciate the youngster and believe he has every quality of a modern full-back. 

• DID YOU KNOW?

  Milan's first priority was to sign Doue but the French side were not budging on their asking price of €30m (£26m/$34m) while the Serie A side could only facilitate a deal worth €23m (£20m/$26m). The two sides could not find common ground and the negotiations have since stalled.

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• AFP
  

  WHAT NEXT FOR ATHEKAME?

  Athekame is a good prospect and can turn out to be a good bet for the Italian side. However, Bologna and Udinese are also reportedly monitoring the player and could swoop in. 

Tags: Futebol
Category: News