Milan weigh January move for versatile Mazraoui as Amorim reshapes defence

AC Milan are considering a move for Manchester United defender Noussair Mazraoui in the January transfer window as manager Ruben Amorim prepares to change his full-back options.

Amorim has settled on using a four-man defence and is looking for a specialist capable of operating on both flanks. According to Italian outlet Calciomercato, Mazraoui is among the leading candidates to fill that role.

The switch to a back four represents the first major tactical change of Amorim’s time at Milan. The club have developed a clearer playing identity, particularly in league competition, but the change in formation has also altered their transfer priorities.

Mazraoui is highly regarded by Amorim, who previously worked with the Morocco international at Manchester United. The defender has not enjoyed regular opportunities during what has been a difficult season for the English club.

The 1997-born player has made five appearances in the Premier League, two in the UEFA Champions League and one in the English League Cup. Those figures do not represent the most productive period of his career at Manchester United.

His versatility would give Amorim several options in defence. Mazraoui can play as either a right-back or a left-back in a back four and is also able to operate centrally when required.

The relationship between Amorim and Mazraoui remains strong. The pair were in contact during the summer transfer window to discuss the possibility of the defender moving to Milan, although no deal was completed at that stage.

Those discussions could resume in the coming days. Mazraoui is currently regarded as Milan’s preferred option should the club decide to recruit a new full-back for the second half of the season.

One possible departure that could make room for Mazraoui is Pervis Estupinan. The Ecuadorian’s relationship with the club has reportedly reached an impasse with all parties, with tensions continuing for an extended period.

However, the final decision on Mazraoui’s future will rest with Mauricio Pochettino, who was recently appointed Manchester United manager in succession to Michael Carrick.

Milan are waiting for the new Manchester United manager to clarify his position on the defender. Should Pochettino give approval for a transfer, the Italian club hope to move for Mazraoui during the upcoming winter window.