AC Milan is adapting its leadership structure as it approaches the summer transfer window following the dismissal of several key figures in its sporting area on May 25th. The club is continuing to pursue Eintracht Frankfurt’s Markus Krösche and Niko Hardung, but is simultaneously preparing an internal chain of command to manage transfer activity, according to reports in the Italian press.
Following the departure of former sporting director Giorgio Furlani, his signing powers have been transferred to Massimo Calvelli, a member of the club’s board of directors. Calvelli has been granted specific delegations to act on behalf of the club, though he does not aspire to the role of Chief Executive Officer. He has already overseen recent transactions including the buyback of Francesco Camarda, the sale of Chaka Traore, and the acquisition of 18-year-old Guernier for the reserve team.
While Calvelli will handle the bureaucratic and financial aspects, the club is looking to internal candidates to fill the void left by the failed pursuit of Krösche and Hardung. Jovan Kirovski, previously with Milan Futuro, is emerging as a strong contender, having been recommended by Zlatan Ibrahimovic two years ago. Kirovski’s time with Milan Futuro saw a disappointing relegation to Serie D and significant investment that did not yield results, but he reportedly held a meeting with owner Gerry Cardinale around the time of the wider restructuring.
However, Kirovski currently lacks the necessary federal license to act as a sporting director. This is where Donato Lomonte comes into play, having recently been appointed head scout, replacing Moncada. Lomonte possesses the required license and could serve as a ‘pro forma’ sporting director. This shift would then see Bobby Gardiner, currently responsible for analysis and programming, take on the coordination of scouting efforts. The situation remains fluid, but the club is attempting to establish a functional structure to begin planning for the upcoming season, with new coach Paulo Fonseca awaiting clarity on potential signings and departures as the pre-season camp approaches in less than a month.
This interim structure is not considered a long-term solution, but it allows Milan to initiate transfer activity while continuing to explore external options.
