sport news AC Milan add Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi to their 'shortlist' of managers to ... trends now

AC Milan have reportedly identified Roberto De Zerbi as one of several managers who could succeed outgoing boss Stefano Pioli. 

Julen Lopetegui had also been heavily linked with a move to take over the Serie A giants, but in the past few days, it appears Milan are 'looking for alternative options to the Wolves boss', according to Gazzetta Dello Sport.

Reports claim that Pioli is set to leave his position as Milan's head coach at the end of the season. The decision was taken after the Italian side were beaten by neighbours Inter Milan 2-1 last week, with the victory also seeing their rivals clinch the Serie A title. 

It came amid fan protests against speculation that they could appoint the Spanish football manager, Loptegui, as their next head coach. 

Supporters had taken to social media writing the hastag '#Nopetegui', while a petition reportedly appeared online that had 10,000 signatures in less than 48 hours, with Milan's supporter group, Curva Sud, demanding the club show 'greater ambition'. 

In the aftermath, it appears, according to Gazzetta, that the Serie A side will turn their attention to several other managers, one of which includes Brighton boss De Zerbi. 

The outlet claims that the move to Milan would be 'one that fascinates' De Zerbi, but they add that the Rossoneri would be required to 'meet his £12million (€15m) release clause'.

He is joined by Paulo Fonseca, Mark Van Bommel, with the Brighton boss having already been linked with a move to Manchester United, should the Red Devils part ways with Erik ten Hag.

De Zerbi was also touted to be a strong candidate to succeed Jurgen Klopp before the read more from dailymail.....