Vincenzo Montella Reveals He Sent '10 Messages a Day' to Milan Chiefs Over Bonucci Transfer
AC Milan coach Vincenzo Montella has revealed that he sent '10 messages a day' to sporting director Massimo Mirabelli in an attempt to encourage the signing of Leonardo Bonucci.
Bonucci joined the Rossoneri from Serie A champions Juventus earlier this month for a fee of €40m, having complained that he did not 'feel important' in Turin.
The capture of the experienced defender was considered a surprising but impressive signal of intent for an increasingly ambitious Milan, but Montella has insisted that he never doubted the possibility.
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"I was convinced it was achievable, I trusted who told me, while my leaders had a different perception," told Gazzetta dello Sport.
"I sent [sporting director Massimo] Mirabelli at least 10 messages a day, with only three words: 'Good morning, or good night, director: Bonucci'."
Bonucci's arrival has brought with it speculation that Montella may opt to switch to a back three, and the Italian coach has not dismissed the prospect.
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"It intrigues me as an idea," he said. "But I must say that with these players we can really use so many systems.
"Bonucci is a highly competitive professional, he will be an example for young players. I do not know if without him Juve has been weakened, but we certainly have strengthened ourselves.
"[And] I do not think he will be too big of a presence in the locker room."
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Milan are expected to sell players after their influx of high profile signings, and one player believed to be at risk of an exit is young striker M'Baye Niang. But Montella has spoken highly of the 22-year-old forward's potential.
"Niang against Bayern made a brilliant match," he added of Milan's 4-0 International Champions Cup victory over the Bundesliga champions.
"He can become a top player, but he needs to improve himself in managing himself when things are fine. There is no reason not to believe in him, it depends more on M'Baye."
