Italian football giants AC Milan are accelerating plans to reshape their sporting structure ahead of the new season, with former Borussia Dortmund executive Sebastian Kehl emerging as a leading candidate to spearhead the club’s ambitious project under newly appointed manager Ruben Amorim.
Following a campaign that fell short of expectations, the Rossoneri hierarchy is determined to build a modern football operation capable of restoring the club to the summit of Italian and European football. Central to that vision is the appointment of a technical director who can work closely with Amorim and help execute a long-term recruitment strategy.
Reports from Italy indicate that Milan have intensified their interest in Kehl after failing to secure the services of Eintracht Frankfurt sporting director Markus Krosche. The German football executive is currently available after ending his long-standing association with Borussia Dortmund, making him one of the most attractive free agents in football management circles.
Kehl’s reputation has been built on years of success both on and off the pitch. During his time at Dortmund, he played a significant role in maintaining the club’s status as one of Europe’s premier talent-development institutions. Under his leadership, Dortmund consistently identified emerging stars, developed young prospects and generated substantial transfer profits while remaining competitive domestically and in European competitions.
His extensive experience in squad building and player recruitment has made him an appealing option for Milan owner Gerry Cardinale, who is seeking to establish a sustainable football model based on intelligent scouting, youth development and modern tactical principles.
The timing of Milan’s pursuit could prove crucial.
Recent reports revealed that Kehl had been in advanced discussions with Tottenham Hotspur regarding a potential move to the Premier League. Negotiations reportedly progressed to the stage where the German travelled to London for direct meetings with club officials.
However, the proposed agreement eventually collapsed due to differences regarding the club’s future sporting structure and decision-making process. The inability to reach common ground has now opened the door for AC Milan to move decisively in securing his services.
For Milan, the search for a new technical leader extends beyond filling an administrative role. The club wants a football executive capable of aligning every aspect of recruitment and squad development with Amorim’s tactical philosophy.
The Portuguese coach arrives at San Siro with a growing reputation as one of Europe’s most innovative managers. Amorim earned widespread recognition during his successful spell at Sporting CP, where he transformed the Lisbon club into domestic champions through a dynamic, high-intensity style of play.
His ability to develop young talent while maintaining competitive success attracted attention across Europe and ultimately convinced Milan’s ownership that he was the ideal candidate to lead the club into a new era.
The appointment of a sporting director is viewed as a critical step in helping Amorim implement his football vision.
Sources close to the club suggest that Amorim has already identified several transfer targets familiar with his system. Among the names reportedly high on Milan’s wishlist are Danish midfielder Morten Hjulmand and Portuguese international Francisco Trincao, both of whom played key roles under Amorim at Sporting.
Hjulmand has developed into one of Europe’s most sought-after midfielders. Known for his leadership qualities, tactical intelligence and ability to control matches from deep positions, the Denmark international has attracted interest from several elite clubs across Europe.
Trincao, meanwhile, offers creativity, technical quality and positional versatility in attack. The Portuguese winger is capable of operating across multiple attacking roles and would provide Milan with additional tactical flexibility.
Kehl’s expertise in negotiating complex transfers could prove invaluable should Milan decide to pursue both players aggressively during the summer market.
Before becoming a respected football executive, Kehl enjoyed a distinguished playing career.
Born in Fulda, Germany, he rose through the ranks of German football before becoming one of Borussia Dortmund’s most influential players. As a midfielder, he was admired for his leadership, work ethic and consistency. He captained Dortmund during one of the club’s most competitive periods and earned numerous appearances for the German national team.
After retiring from professional football, Kehl transitioned seamlessly into football administration. His understanding of both dressing-room dynamics and boardroom strategy helped him establish credibility among coaches, players and executives alike.
His successful transition from player to sporting director has often been cited as one of the reasons behind Dortmund’s ability to maintain stability during periods of significant squad turnover.
While Kehl remains the preferred option, Milan are continuing to evaluate alternative candidates.
Among the names reportedly under consideration are Jose Boto, the highly respected Portuguese recruitment specialist currently working at Flamengo, and Devin Ozek, who has earned recognition for his work in Turkish football.
Jason Ayto, formerly associated with Brighton’s innovative recruitment department, has also been mentioned as a potential candidate capable of contributing to Milan’s long-term project.
Despite these alternatives, many observers believe Kehl’s experience, leadership profile and proven track record make him the standout choice.
The coming weeks are expected to be decisive as Milan finalise the structure that will support Amorim’s first season in charge.
With the club determined to return to title contention in Serie A and re-establish itself among Europe’s elite, the appointment of a sporting director could prove just as important as any signing made on the pitch.
For AC Milan supporters, the pursuit of Sebastian Kehl signals a clear commitment to building a football operation capable of competing at the highest level for years to come.
