AC Milan have completed the signing of 20-year-old defender Sankhoun Diawara from French side Troyes for a fee of approximately €3 million, the club confirmed. Diawara arrives at Milanello with the potential to serve as a backup to central defender Matteo Pavlovic, and also provide cover at full-back within coach Ruben Amorim’s tactical system.
The Senegalese-Malian-Guinean international progressed through the Troyes academy system, joining in 2020 and making his first-team debut last year following the club’s promotion to Ligue 1. He made 17 appearances across all competitions for Troyes last season, contributing one goal and one assist. Milan moved quickly to secure Diawara’s signature, beating out competition from Scottish Premiership side Glasgow Rangers.
Diawara is described as a technically gifted, left-footed defender with considerable physical presence, standing at 1.90m tall. His ability to play both centrally and on the flank is seen as a valuable asset for Amorim, who reportedly believes he offers more energy in the full-back role than current option Matteo Bartesaghi, and possesses the passing range to break lines from deep.
The signing of Diawara continues Milan’s recent focus on youth development, following contract renewals for academy graduates Comotto and Camarda. The club has also been linked with a move for 2007-born talent Karetsas, though that deal is expected to take longer to materialize. Milan’s recruitment strategy is evolving under the ownership of Cardinale, integrating data analysis with traditional scouting methods under the leadership of Bobby Gardiner and Donato Lomonte. Diawara, nicknamed “Papis” by his teammates and family, has represented France at the Under-19 level and will be looking to establish himself in Milan’s first team. He is known for his unique goal celebrations and stylish approach, often sporting a white wristband similar to Karim Benzema.
