Despite the breakthrough in talks between the two clubs, Di Marzio reports that a significant question mark remains over when Mateta will actually arrive at the San Siro. While the agreement on the transfer fee and terms is in place, it is not clear whether the operation can be finalised before Monday’s transfer deadline or if this is a strategic play to secure him for the summer.
Milan are keen to bring the striker in immediately to bolster their Serie A campaign, but the logistics of a deadline-day move are complex. The verbal agreement acts as a form of insurance for Milan, ensuring that even if the clock runs out on a January switch, they have effectively reserved the player for June, preventing him from joining a rival like Forest in the interim.
However, the preference remains a winter move. The club hierarchy is working around the clock to convert this verbal understanding into a signed contract, but several moving parts must align perfectly in the coming hours for Mateta to be unveiled as a Milan player this month.
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