Ardon Jashari compares himself to 'inspiration' Andrea Pirlo and aims to learn from Luka Modric after completing 'dream' AC Milan transfer

Milan completed the signing of Jashari from Club Brugge for a fee of €36 million (£31m/$41m) plus bonuses in early August, fulfilling a lifelong dream for the midfielder. Jashari rejected a host of clubs from England, Germany and Saudi Arabia to try and force a move to Italy as the Serie A side had a difficult time convincing the Belgian club to let him leave. 

"Everyone knows it was a long negotiation, but from the first contacts with Milan, it was clear that I wanted to come here," he said at a press conference on Wednesday. "I knew it wouldn't be easy because I was important to Club Brugge and they wouldn't let me go easily. Patience was needed. Tare always told me he'd do everything he could to bring me here. Even though other clubs came, I only wanted Milan. Now we're all happy."

After a stellar 2024-25 season, winning both Belgian League Player and Young Player of the Year, Jashari joined Milan’s midfield rebuild. He named club legend Andrea Pirlo as his idol, highlighting their similar journeys from number 10s to deep-lying playmakers.

"My favourite AC Milan player was Pirlo. I have a similar story to him; he started out as a No. 10, and so did I. Then he came here and played as a playmaker. I also started out as an attacking midfielder, and now I play further back. He was a huge inspiration to me. Obviously, we're different players; I'll play my own style." he said.

Milan have also completed the signing of Modric on a free transfer from Real Madrid. For Jashari playing alongside the legendary six time Champions League winner is a great opportunity as it will help him gain experience.

He said: "Modric has a lot of experience, which can help me a lot every day. I'll try to have fun and enjoy playing with him, and then try to grow with him."

Jashari has realised his childhood dream of joining Milan and will be ready to lace up his boots when the Rossoneri  take on Bari on Sunday in a Coppa Italia knockout game.