Adrien Rabiot completes permanent transfer to AC Milan from Marseille
AC Milan have completed the signing of French midfielder Adrien Rabiot from Olympique de Marseille on a permanent deal, according to reports from Italy. The 29-year-old has signed a three-year contract with the Rossoneri, with the transfer fee understood to be in the region of 10 million euros including bonuses. Rabiot's arrival marks a significant coup for Milan manager Massimiliano Allegri, who has long been an admirer of the player.
The move brings Rabiot back to Serie A after a single season in Ligue 1 with Marseille. His departure from Juventus last summer came after his contract expired, despite a mutual interest in an extension during the final season under Allegri's management at the Turin club. A shift in sporting direction under new sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli and incoming coach Thiago Motta, coupled with reported complications in negotiations with the player's mother and representative, Veronique Rabiot, led to his exit.
Rabiot subsequently joined Marseille on a two-year deal, but the relationship soured quickly, prompting the player to seek a new club this summer. Sources indicate Rabiot explored a potential return to Juventus, but the Bianconeri hierarchy had moved on to other targets. This opened the door for Allegri at Milan, who moved decisively to secure a player he views as a leader and a difference-maker in the Italian league.
Rabiot's final season at Juventus in 2023/24 demonstrated his value in Serie A, where his physical presence and technical ability have consistently stood out. His performances for Milan this season have already proven influential, with the midfielder scoring decisive goals in matches against Torino and Como, and providing a crucial contribution in a recent win over Verona. Statistics cited by Italian media suggest Milan's average points per game drops significantly when Rabiot is not in the lineup, underlining his importance to Allegri's project.
The transfer represents a strategic signing for Milan, who acquire an experienced, proven Serie A performer for a relatively modest fee in today's market. His annual salary is reported to be approximately 5.5 million euros. For Rabiot, the move offers a return to a league where he has flourished and a reunion with a coach who fully trusts his abilities. The impending Champions League clash between Milan and Juventus now carries an added narrative, with Rabiot positioned to directly influence the fortunes of his former club.
