AC Milan see offer for new right-back option rejected as Young Boys set asking price for alternative to Guela Doue

According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Milan's initial bid of €7 million for Athekame has been rejected as it didn't match Young Boy's €10m asking price. The clubs are not far apart in the player's valuation and the Serie A club believe they can get the deal done soon. The Italian side scouted Athekame after not being able to find an agreement to sign Strasbourg's Doue.

Athekame was signed by Young Boys in 2024 from Swiss second division side Neuchatel Xamax. The 20-year-old didn't take time to cement his position as an integral part of the team as he played 43 games across all competitions, scoring a goal and providing three assists. The right-back also played 10 games for Switzerland's U-21 team. The Italian club appreciate the youngster and believe he has every quality of a modern full-back. 

Milan's first priority was to sign Doue but the French side were not budging on their asking price of €30m (£26m/$34m) while the Serie A side could only facilitate a deal worth €23m (£20m/$26m). The two sides could not find common ground and the negotiations have since stalled.

Athekame is a good prospect and can turn out to be a good bet for the Italian side. However, Bologna and Udinese are also reportedly monitoring the player and could swoop in. 

Additional reporting Nino Caracciolo.