Saelemaekers to return to Milan as Bologna decide not to buy

Alexis Saelemaekers will reportedly return to Milan as Bologna have decided not to active the winger’s buy option.

The 24-year-old Belgian forward spent the 2023-24 season on loan with the Rossoblu, where he showed a number of positives under Thiago Motta, scoring four goals and providing three assists across 30 league matches, helping the club to secure Champions League football.

Saelemaekers has struggled to show his best during his time with Milan and a low price was set for the buy option, around €10m. His contract in the Lombardy capital expires in June 2026 and the arrival of Christian Pulisic at the club has reduced his chances of featuring often.

Saelemaekers decision

Il Resto del Carlino via Calciomercato.com details how Bologna are not particularly interested in signing Saelemaekers on a definitive transfer, both due to his price tag and due to the thoughts of new coach Vincenzo Italiano, who would prefer the club to focus on other targets.

As such, the 24-year-old will return to Milan, who’ll now have to decide what to do next with the Belgian winger.