Milan excited by the capture of ‘perfect’ Tomori from Chelsea

Robin Bairner

• Updated: 19 May 2021 15:43 BST
• 2 min read

Milan director Paolo Maldini has revealed his excitement at the looming signing of Chelsea defender Fikayo Tomori.

Maldini, widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders in the history of the game, has branded Tomori as being “perfect” for the Rossoneri as they chase the Serie A title.

As recently as last week, Frank Lampard suggested that Tomori has a long-term future at Chelsea.

However, the Blues are ready to cede the 23-year-old to the Rossoneri. The deal will initially be on a loan basis, but the Italians will have a £25 million purchase option installed in it.

“We wanted Fikayo Tomori last summer, he’s always been one of our targets. He’s perfect for our squad, we’re working on the last details,” Maldini told Sky Sport Italia.

Lampard on Fikayo Tomori

Earlier on Monday, Lampard all-but confirmed that the decision had been taken to allow Tomori to depart.

“I don’t think there’s any ‘when did it start to go wrong’, Fikayo’s a developing player. As a squad, we had four centre-backs last year, and you can’t play four in one game,” the Chelsea boss said.

“And you try to find consistency at different times. At one point, Fikayo was in that, and then later on not so much. And this year we have five centre-backs, so the predicament is difficult for centre-backs who are not playing regularly.

“And that’s why he may go out on loan for his development, he’s a young player and he’s had a huge rise in the last two or so seasons since I’ve been working with him, and that will continue, and we’ll find the best path for that.”

Tomori has only featured once for Chelsea in either the Premier League or the Champions League this season. Indeed, he has made the bench for a league match only once since October 17.