Jul 31, 2024; Chicago, IL, USA; AC Milan head coach Paulo Fonseca looks on against Real Madrid during the second half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Bartel-USA TODAY Sports

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Milan Seal €10m Deal for Young Boys Defender Zachary Athekame

Jul 31, 2024; Chicago, IL, USA; AC Milan head coach Paulo Fonseca looks on against Real Madrid during the second half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Bartel-USA TODAY Sports

AC Milan are set to welcome 20-year-old right-back Zachary Athekame from Swiss champions Young Boys, with the two clubs reaching an agreement worth €10 million including add-ons. The deal also includes a 10 per cent sell-on clause, ensuring Young Boys benefit from any future profit should Milan sell the player.

🚨🔴⚫️ Zachary Athekame to AC Milan, here we go! Deal agreed for €10m total package plus 10% sell-on clause to Young Boys.

The right back will soon travel to Milano for medical and contract signing. 🔜 pic.twitter.com/yoHMzWoArP
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 13, 2025

Negotiations between the two clubs have been ongoing in recent days, with Milan steadily increasing their offer from an initial €7m proposal to match Young Boys’ valuation. Performance-related bonuses have helped bridge the gap, and the agreement is now in place. Athekame, who can also operate in an advanced role down the right flank, is expected to travel to Italy within the next 48 hours to undergo his medical and sign his contract.

A Swift Conclusion to Talks with Athekame

Reports from France indicate that the deal moved quickly once Milan accelerated discussions at the start of the week. Young Boys had initially been holding firm at a slightly higher price due to increased interest from other clubs, but the Rossoneri’s latest bid matched their demands. The player only recently signed a long-term contract with the Swiss side until June 2029, yet the lure of Serie A football and Milan’s project proved decisive.

Athekame featured briefly in Young Boys’ goalless draw with Sion on Sunday, playing just 13 minutes – which now appears to have been his farewell appearance. The Swiss side’s willingness to finalise terms early in the week allowed Milan to push forward, with only minor contractual details left to resolve before the move was agreed.

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This signing follows closely on the heels of Milan’s capture of defender Koni De Winter, whose arrival is pending official confirmation after his medical yesterday. Athekame’s addition bolsters Milan’s defensive depth on the right, offering both youthful energy and versatility to the squad.

With the agreement concluded and the player’s travel plans set, Milan are expected to confirm the transfer imminently, continuing their busy summer of squad strengthening ahead of the new Serie A campaign.