AC Milan have reportedly identified Manchester City defender Sergio Gomez as a potential January transfer target.
The left-sided player made the surprise switch to the Etihad Stadium at the start of 2022-23 after impressive seasons with Huesca and Anderlecht in La Liga and the Belgian top flight respectively.
However, Gomez has failed to establish himself as a key part of Pep Guardiola's squad with just two of his 14 appearances in the Premier League coming from the starting lineup.
In total, the Spaniard has made 12 starts and 15 substitute outings in all competitions, contributing two assists during that time.
While Gomez has a contract at City until 2026, there have recently been suggestions that his place in the squad could come under threat from Guardiola purchasing a similar player.
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As recently as this week, it was claimed that Guardiola are monitoring any developments with the future of Chelsea's Ian Maatsen, who has less than a year remaining on his contract.
Acquiring Maatsen on a free transfer and generating a substantial fee for Gomez would, in theory, appeal to City, and it appears that they may be given the opportunity to achieve at least one part of that scenario.
According to Calciomercato, Gomez is on the radar of Milan officials ahead of the upcoming transfer windows.
The report suggests that the Italian giants are attracted to the possibility of negotiating a deal due to Gomez's age and versatility.
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While Gomez has spent the bulk of his career playing at left-back or further down the left flank, he is also capable of being deployed as a central midfielder.
A fee of €18m (£15.7m) has been suggested for a player who cost in the region of £11m when he signed for City 14 months ago.
Milan boss Stefano Pioli already has two strong options down the left-hand side of the pitch, with Theo Hernandez at left-back and Rafael Leao playing on the same flank in the final third.
Nevertheless, there are few recognised backup options and there is potential for Gomez to act as deputy for each of those positions in the future.
Darren Plant
