Kyle Walker’s recent move to AC Milan on loan has raised some eyebrows, especially when it comes to the financial impact on Manchester City.
The 34-year-old England international, who spent eight successful years with City, is expected to make his stay in Italy permanent at the end of the season. Sources indicate that the Premier League champions will not be covering any of Walker’s wages during his time at the Serie A giants, making this deal a questionable financial decision for the Manchester club.
Walker’s departure came after a request to leave City in January, citing personal reasons. The right-back’s move to Milan includes an option-to-buy clause, but despite the opportunity for a transfer fee, City may not be reaping the financial rewards they had hoped for. With Walker making his debut for AC Milan in their 1-1 draw against Inter Milan on February 2, the situation could evolve as the season progresses, but the financial aspects appear less than ideal for the Premier League leaders.
Stefan Borson, a former financial advisor to Manchester City, has voiced concerns over the deal, claiming that it is not financially beneficial for City. He pointed out that the loan arrangement was driven by Walker’s personal request, not the club’s intentions. City had initially planned on keeping Walker for the remainder of the season, but the veteran right-back’s desire to leave prompted a change in direction.
Advertisement
Latest Press Conference
We’re on Social Media
In terms of the loan agreement, Borson believes there could be a small fee involved, though it’s unlikely to be significant. Given the circumstances surrounding the move, this minor fee will hardly make a dent in City’s financial outlook. The deal, in Borson’s view, reflects the challenges of managing player departures and the club’s finances in situations where player decisions play a large role.
Looking ahead, it appears AC Milan is likely to exercise their option to sign Walker permanently for €5million (£4.2million). However, the actual transfer will depend on his performances during the remainder of the season. If the right-back delivers on the pitch, Milan could opt to make the move permanent, but this still leaves City without a major financial gain from the deal, especially considering the wages and other factors involved.
Ultimately, the move highlights a situation where Manchester City is not in the driver’s seat financially. With Walker’s personal wishes dictating the transfer and no substantial loan fee to balance the books, this deal does not represent the kind of financial success City usually aims for in their player transactions. As the season progresses, City will hope that the €5million fee, should it materialize, at least mitigates some of the financial shortcomings of this deal.
