AC Milan are continuing their search for a new sporting director alongside ongoing discussions regarding the potential appointment of Ralf Rangnick, according to reports in Italy. The club is evaluating several candidates, with a significant focus on individuals currently working within Spanish football.
Milan’s ownership, led by Gerry Cardinale, are reportedly prioritizing the appointment of a director who will align with Rangnick’s vision should he take the role. The intention is to avoid a disconnect between the coach and the sporting director, ensuring a cohesive decision-making process regarding both player recruitment and overall squad strategy. It is understood that Rangnick would desire significant control over footballing matters if appointed.
Ramon Planes, currently the sporting director of Saudi Arabian side Al-Ittihad, is among the leading candidates. Planes has a well-established career in Spanish football, previously holding positions at Espanyol, Tottenham, Elche, Rayo Vallecano, Getafe, and notably, Barcelona between 2018 and 2019. During his time at Barcelona, Planes reportedly came close to securing the transfer of Lautaro Martinez from Inter for a fee of €80 million, a deal that ultimately fell through due to the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Another name under consideration is Txiki Beguiristain, who recently concluded a twelve-year spell at Manchester City. Beguiristain previously served as Barcelona’s director of football from 2003 to 2010, overseeing the acquisition of players such as Zlatan Ibrahimović. Further options being explored include Viktor Bezhani, the current sporting director of Toulouse, a club within the RedBird Capital Partners network, and Manu Fajardo, who has been with Real Betis since 2024. Jorge Rodriguez of Villarreal, known for his talent identification skills, is also a candidate.
Reports suggest that initial talks have already taken place with Fajardo, while the club continues to assess all available options. The appointment of a new sporting director is seen as crucial for Milan as they look to rebuild and compete at the highest level in Serie A.
