Belgian journalist admits Sylla may be ‘more inclined’ to move to England: “His dream destination”

By: Ben Dixon

AC Milan have been heavily interested in Massire Sylla recently, but it seems they may struggle to sign him, let alone in January.

It’s no secret that Milan want to sign a central defender and whilst Goncalo Inacio is the leading name, he’s not the only one in the mix. Instead, there are several public names of interest and Sylla is one of them.

First linked by Matteo Moretto, his name has become more popular in reports linking the Rossoneri to defenders and he seems like a concrete target for the January mercato. Yet, it seems like it will be difficult to bring him to San Siro.

Speaking to MilanNews, Het Nieuwsblad journalist Tjorven Messiaen looked at Massire Sylla and what his future had in store.

In Italy, there’s been talk of AC Milan’s interest in Sylla. What’s being said about him in Belgium?

“I saw that AC Milan have linked him with him. In Belgium, we discovered him through social media, and the USG hasn’t confirmed anything yet. It’s possible, however, that AC Milan has drawn attention to the boy, because he’s playing great football.

“His move to AC Milan is unlikely to materialise in January, however, as both Sylla and the club would be more inclined to listen to offers from the Premier League. He’s the kind of player who would be a perfect fit for the English league.”

What are his main strengths and best qualities?

“He’s young, he’s good in duels, he’s quick. He’s also very good at ball control. He’s a complete defender; he has the potential to become one of the best, and he’d be a perfect fit in the Premier League, which, among other things, is Sylla’s dream destination.”

What aspects of his game still need improvement?

“It’s hard to say, especially since his growth in recent months has been impressive. I’d say he needs to gain more experience, which will come simply by playing. So I don’t see many things he needs to improve to take the next step in his career.”

Do you think Union Saint-Gilloise (USG) would be willing to let him leave in January, or do you think any transfer discussions will be postponed until the summer?

“I don’t think USG will let him leave in January. The only possible scenario, which I don’t think will happen, but which is the only solution anyway, is for USG to sign him in January but keep him at least until the end of the season, especially since the club never sells its best players in January.

“I also think interested clubs could spend a lot of money, but Union won’t let him leave in January.”

Could you describe him in three adjectives?

“Quick, physical, and full of character, because he’s someone who always has problems when he has to make decisions.”

Which defender would you compare him to?

“Considering his development, I’d say Pacho. He came from nowhere in Belgium, developed, moved to Frankfurt, and then ended up at PSG. In Sylla’s case, I think he’ll go straight to the Premier League. He has everything it takes to be perfect for this league.”

He’s still very young. Do you think he’s ready to play for a big club in a big city like Milan?

“He’s still very young, but he’s humble, calm, and we mustn’t forget that he arrived last year, in January, from the Norwegian second division. He played very little last year, but he’s very strong mentally and has started this season as if he’s been playing with this team for years.

“I can’t imagine USG without Sylla today, especially since we’re talking about one of the best defenders in the league. At the end of the season, he’ll make a significant leap in his career, but in my opinion it won’t be AC ​​Milan because he’s waiting for the Premier League. And from what I know, several English clubs are already ready to make him a player.

“So AC Milan could give him a try, but it will require a big project and a lot of money.”

We shall have to see how January develops and whether he could be sold on the project. However, it certainly doesn’t bode well from these comments.