AC Milan Eyeing Joe Gomez as Defensive Reinforcement

Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio has reported that AC Milan are actively exploring defensive reinforcements, with Liverpool’s Joe Gomez among the names on their shortlist. The Rossoneri have been pursuing Manchester City’s Manuel Akanji, but with the Swiss international reluctant to open the door to a move, Milan are now looking at other potential targets.

Di Marzio explains, “The Rossoneri are considering to get Manuel Akanji, Manchester City defender. The Swiss born in 1995 has not yet opened up to the Italian club and for this reason the alternatives are being evaluated.”

Among those alternatives, Villarreal’s Juan Foyth is being assessed, but the standout name that will catch the attention of Premier League supporters is Joe Gomez.

Joe Gomez Attracting Interest in Serie A

According to the report, “In addition to Juan Foyth of Villareal, another name evaluated is that of Joe Gomez, English central of Liverpool.” Milan’s interest highlights Gomez’s enduring reputation as a versatile defender capable of playing across the backline. Still only 28 years old, he has the experience of winning the Champions League and Premier League with Liverpool, while also bringing pace and composure that could translate well to Serie A.

However, given Liverpool’s current situation under Arne Slot, a potential exit seems complex. Gomez has started the new campaign as a reliable squad option following the departures of Jarell Quansah and Trent Alexander-Arnold earlier this summer. Slot has already moved to strengthen his full-back options with Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez, as well as adding young defender Giovanni Leoni from Parma. Even so, the Reds are still looking to sign Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace for around £30m.

Why Liverpool may Resist a Sale

From a Liverpool perspective, letting Gomez leave at this stage feels risky. With the club returning to the Champions League and aiming to defend their Premier League crown, depth is essential. Gomez has been part of the squad for nearly a decade and offers a unique blend of versatility, leadership and experience.

The club’s defensive strategy under Slot is clear, with younger talents like Leoni expected to develop gradually. Until a deal for Guehi is secured, allowing Gomez to depart would leave Liverpool exposed. Given the manager’s push to maintain a strong start, the expectation is that Liverpool will stand firm unless an extraordinary offer arrives.

Milan’s Need for Defensive Assurance

For Milan, the pursuit of Gomez represents ambition to reinforce a squad that struggled with injuries in recent seasons. Massimiliano Allegri wants a reliable central defender to stabilise the backline alongside Fikayo Tomori. With Akanji hesitant, Gomez represents a serious option, albeit one complicated by Liverpool’s resistance to sanction a move.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

This report raises more questions than it answers. Joe Gomez has been a loyal figure through thick and thin, adapting to different roles across the back four. With Arne Slot steering the club to back-to-back wins and confidence high after last season’s title, selling Gomez feels like a step backwards.

The squad already lost Quansah and Alexander-Arnold earlier this summer, which put pressure on recruitment. Frimpong, Kerkez and Leoni have been added, but the deal for Guehi remains unfinished. Until that transfer is signed and sealed, moving Gomez on would leave the Reds short in a key area.

Milan’s interest is understandable given his qualities, but from a fan’s view this does not add up. Slot values discipline and squad depth, and Gomez has shown he can deliver both. Unless Liverpool receive a staggering fee, supporters will expect him to remain part of the campaign. Defending the Premier League title requires strong numbers, and losing a seasoned defender like Gomez would feel reckless, especially with Champions League fixtures around the corner.

In short, Gomez’s name on Milan’s list may make headlines, but it is hard to believe Liverpool would entertain such a deal in the current context.