It is now finally official: Milan have signed Stephan El Shaarawy from Genoa in exchange for Alexander Merkel plus cash.
The move had been known for several weeks, but could not be completed until the 17-year-old had finished his exams.
“AC Milan announce they have bought Stephan El Shaarawy from Genoa in a co-ownership deal and have sold to Genoa, again in a co-ownership agreement, Alexander Merkel,” read a statement on the club website.
It is now finally official: Milan have signed Stephan El Shaarawy from Genoa in exchange for Alexander Merkel plus cash.
The move had been known for several weeks, but could not be completed until the 17-year-old had finished his exams.
“AC Milan announce they have bought Stephan El Shaarawy from Genoa in a co-ownership deal and have sold to Genoa, again in a co-ownership agreement, Alexander Merkel,” read a statement on the club website.
Although no figures have been mentioned, it's widely believed the Rossoneri paid €10m for half the Under-21 international's contract.
“El Shaarawy is a very good player and he will become a No 1,” Coach Max Allegri said to La Gazzetta dello Sport.
“He is young, has quality, and he is of the type of player that you must focus on to create a cycle – and make us competitive in Europe too.
“We have to be careful though, you don't have to create a phenomenon.
“Stephan is still a young boy and he will have to study this new environment, but I'm convinced that he has his head in the right place.
“When Milan choose a player, they don't only look at his technical qualities…”