AC Milan, Amorim spellbound by Bakola: the 2007-born player who takes inspiration from Pogba and also interests Roma and Juventus

AC Milan, Amorim was very surprised by Bakola’s qualities in the match at the Mapei Stadium

Darryl Bakola claimed the man-of-the-match honour against AC Milan. Born in 2007, he delivered a complete, mature performance. He earned a solid seven in the player ratings, just ahead of Ruben Amorim, who was genuinely surprised by the qualities of the wonderkid who arrived from Marisglia in January for 10 million plus 2 million in bonuses to conquer Serie A.

With technically gifted box-to-box midfielders who have a strong attacking drive in short supply across the international game, Sassuolo's young talent is firmly on the radar of scouts across Europe. The Frenchman already has plenty of admirers. Now AC Milan have joined them.

Here’s why AC Milan are interested

Bakola has played more than 300 minutes in Serie A, covered plenty of ground, passed consistently accurately and assisted Bowie to make it 2-1 at the time against Juventus. He has earned Aquilani's respect. Aquilani is building a significant path for his development, as he did with Cisse and Favasuli at Catanzaro last year. Whether he plays as a No 10, attacking midfielder or central midfielder, Bakola always has the ball at his feet. He isn't lightning-quick, but he's a possession player who looks to play forward. Just the kind of player Ruben Amorim likes. Darryl is direct, quick to burst forward with the ball at his feet and skilled at receiving it and moving in tight spaces.

Cost and competition

Giovanni Carnevali signed him for 10 million last January, his final major deal as Sassuolo managing director before moving to Juventus. It looks a shrewd move. Juventus now have a preferential route to the player, who has also been recommended to the Gasperini-D'Amico duo at Roma. His profile appeals, and he will be monitored to see whether he can become a new Konè. His valuation has at least doubled since February. After his performance against AC Milan yesterday, it could rise above 30 million.