Official: Saelemaekers leaves Milan and joins Bologna on loan with option to buy | Rossoneri Blog

Alexis Saelemaekers has left Milan and is set to start a new adventure.

Alexis joined Milan in January 2020 from Anderlecht and he became an important player for the Diavolo, playing a big role in the Scudetto of 2021/22 and in the Champions League semi-final of 2022/23.

However, the Rossoneri decided to completely overhaul their right wing and after signing Luka Romero, Christian Pulisic and Samuel Chukwueze, and selling Junior Messias to Genoa, today was the day of Saelemaekers to say goodbye to the Diavolo.

“Milan can confirm that Alexis Saelemaekers has joined Bologna FC on loan until 30 June 2024, with an option to make the deal permanent. The Club would like to wish Alexis all the best for the coming season,” a statement on the Milan website reads on Wednesday.

The numbers of the deal varied based on the source, but it’s believed that Milan get something between €0.5-1m for the loan, with the option set at around €10.5-12m. Alexis lost his place in the starting XI of the Rossoneri and the situation caused tension between him and coach Stefano Pioli.

Pioli has stated he wants to coach happy players, and Saelemaekers will hope to re-find his smile at Bologna. The Belgian scored 10 goals in 140 appearances for Milan.