Leon Goretzka is poised to complete a free transfer to AC Milan following eight years at Bayern Munich, provided the Rossoneri secure Champions League qualification this weekend. The German midfielder has agreed personal terms worth €5 million annually plus substantial bonuses on a three-year contract, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport.
Goretzka held direct talks with Milan head coach Massimiliano Allegri and was convinced by the Italian's tactical vision. The 31-year-old has already agreed terms "for weeks," yet one critical condition remains: Milan must finish in the top four to activate the deal. Currently level on 70 points with Roma, Milan face Cagliari at San Siro on Sunday in a decisive battle alongside Juventus and Como for two remaining Champions League spots.
Bayern Munich's Midfield Shift
Goretzka's departure marks the end of a trophy-laden chapter in Munich. During his tenure, he captured seven Bundesliga titles, the Champions League, the UEFA Super Cup, and the FIFA Club World Cup. However, under Vincent Kompany's management, his role diminished significantly. He was benched throughout crucial Champions League matches against Real Madrid and PSG, sitting unused in both encounters.
The midfielder's status shifted last season when injuries to Aleksandar Pavlovic and Joao Palhinha created opportunity alongside Joshua Kimmich. That resurgence earned him a World Cup recall for Germany, where he will compete with Borussia Dortmund's Felix Nmecha for midfield minutes as Kimmich transitions to right-back duties.
Milan's Champions League Race
Three Italian rivals—Inter, Napoli, and Juventus—previously tracked Goretzka, while Atlético Madrid made a winter move that ultimately collapsed. Milan have "clearly pulled ahead of the competition," positioning themselves as his chosen destination.
A draw against Cagliari would secure Milan's European place and finalize Goretzka's transfer, giving the club a proven midfielder with elite pedigree just as their season reaches its climax. The outcome on Sunday will determine not only Milan's continental future but also whether Goretzka's next chapter officially begins.
