AC Milan Right-Back Chase: Pubill in Rossoneri Sights

AC Milan right-back recruitment plans have entered a decisive phase as the Rossoneri open talks with Almería for promising Spaniard Marc Pubill. Having missed out on several targets this summer, the seven-time European champions are determined to secure a specialist on the flank before the season kicks off.

Why AC Milan Need a New Right-Back

Injury setbacks to Davide Calabria and the inconsistent form of Pierre Kalulu left Stefano Pioli’s side short-handed throughout last term. The coach repeatedly improvised with center-backs or wingers in the full-back slot, a solution that hurt Milan’s balance in both phases of play. An AC Milan right-back signing is therefore top of the agenda, with the sporting director Geoffrey Moncada seeking a player who offers athleticism, one-v-one defending, and offensive thrust.

AC Milan Right-Back Target: Who Is Marc Pubill?

The 22-year-old Pubill may not yet be a household name, but observers of La Liga have been impressed by his sharp rise. Standing 1.88 m, he blends the physical stature of a centre-half with the sprinter’s pace of a modern wing-back. Pubill made 31 league appearances for Almería last season, ranking among the top five Liga full-backs for interceptions and progressive carries. His performances at the UEFA U21 Euros and his recent call-up for Spain’s 2024 Olympic squad have reinforced the belief that he can thrive on a bigger stage. Milan scouts logged multiple live reports and concluded that the player’s ceiling outstrips the €15 million price tag.

Barcelona’s Counter-Move and Betis Loan Strategy

Barcelona, however, have no intention of letting a domestic gem leave the peninsula uncontested. Sporting director Deco has drawn up a plan to purchase Pubill outright and immediately loan him to Real Betis—much as the Blaugrana did with Ez Abde last year—to ensure he gains top-flight minutes while the Camp Nou’s right flank remains congested. Financial fair-play restrictions mean Barça prefer staggered payments, giving Milan a window to move quickly with cash on the table.

Financial Details and Contract Variables

Almería are resigned to losing their brightest asset and have put an affordable €15 million asking price on the table, plus bonuses that could nudge the fee toward €18 million if Champions League qualification and appearance clauses are triggered. Milan would offer Pubill a five-year deal worth €1.8 million net per season, a significant raise on his current salary. The structure appeals to RedBird’s sustainable model, which targets players under 23 with resale value. On the other hand, Barcelona’s proposal is rumoured to include a future buy-back and 20 percent sell-on clause, sweetening the pot for Almería but adding layers of complexity.

Tactical Fit for Stefano Pioli

Stefano Pioli’s preferred 4-2-3-1 depends heavily on overlapping full-backs. Calabria’s discipline helped defensively, yet Milan lacked a dynamic runner capable of pushing the winger inside and forcing overloads. Pubill’s heat map shows he operates almost as a wide midfielder in possession, averaging 78 touches per game in the opponent’s half. His 1.9 key passes per 90 minutes last season would immediately rank second among Milan defenders. An AC Milan right-back capable of stretching play on the right would also free Theo Hernández from constantly carrying the team’s width down the left, restoring equilibrium.

Competition From Serie A and La Liga Rivals

Napoli and Villarreal have registered preliminary interest, using the player’s representative José Tamarit to enquire about salary expectations. Neither club, however, has matched Milan’s verbal offer nor Barcelona’s strategic allure. The Rossoneri enjoy an advantage in Champions League exposure, while Barça hold the prestige of La Masia’s pathway. The player himself is said to be intrigued by Serie A, having grown up watching Cafu and Ignazio Abate bomb down San Siro’s right flank. Sources close to Pubill suggest that regular European football and a clear starting role weigh heavily in his decision-making.

What Happens Next?

Negotiations are expected to accelerate this week. Almería’s pre-season starts on 10 July and coach Pepe Mel prefers clarity before then. Milan’s hierarchy want the AC Milan right-back position settled before their US summer tour, enabling Pioli to integrate the newcomer against Real Madrid and Manchester City. If a fee is agreed swiftly, medicals could take place at Milanello within days. Barcelona, by contrast, may need board approval to finalise their staggered payment plan, handing Milan a critical first-mover advantage. Still, the Rossoneri must act decisively; delay could see Deco swoop in with a late, improved bid.

Opinion: A Deal Milan Must Push Over the Line

From every sporting and financial angle, Marc Pubill looks tailor-made for Milan’s rebuild. At €15 million, the fee is modest in today’s market for a modern, high-upside defender. Given the scarcity of top-class full-backs and the looming interest from Barcelona, the Rossoneri can ill afford hesitation. Seal the transfer now, and Milan secure a long-term solution; blink, and Pubill may be weaving past them in a Betis or Barça shirt next season.