Recent reports have suggested that whilst AFC Bournemouth striker Dominic Solanke has been linked with sides such as Arsenal, he remains happy in red and black. But would the 26-year-old consider swapping the red and black stripes of the Cherries for the red and black stripes of Italian giants AC Milan?

According to the Daily Echo, reports in the Italian media suggest that may be a decision for Solanke this summer.

AC Milan’s current striking target is Bologna’s Joshua Zirkzee, however, if that deal isn’t concluded they may move their sights towards Solanke.

Solanke enjoyed arguably his breakout season in the Premier League during 2023/24, scoring 19 goals in 38 Premier League games, and 21 in all competitions.

According to the Athletic, “Dominic Solanke’s contract at Bournemouth includes a release clause of £65million that can only be activated by certain clubs.”

The report continued…

“The striker’s release clause, though is limited to a select group of clubs — although the identity of those that would qualify is undisclosed. With Bournemouth unlikely to want to lose their leading scorer, it is expected that the stipulation only allows leading teams in the Premier League and European leagues, that are also set to play in European competitions, to trigger the clause.

AC Milan would certainly fall into those select group of clubs having finished second in Italy’s Serie A last season, qualifying for this season’s UEFA Champions League.

Next season’s UEFA Champions League will boast a new look, with a new format guaranteeing additional games for all participants.

Another option could be a return to Chelsea according to a report by CaughtOffside.

However, there appears to be a sticking point in this move on the Chelsea side with the London club unwilling to pay the release clause in full, opting to prefer to pay the fee in installments, something which AFC Bournemouth can reportedly reject.

Chelsea Journalist Simon Phillips has been quoted by the report adding…

“…there’s always room for negotiations in these things, and Chelsea would look for the player to push. Solanke is open to a return. Again, nothing advanced, but certainly something going on there, there’s just far too much noise for it to be absolutely nothing in it.”