Milan devise plan to secure Lazio defender Marusic on free transfer | OneFootball

Milan are already looking beyond the January window as they explore an opportunistic move for Lazio defender Adam Marusic, identifying the Montenegrin as a potential free-transfer signing for the summer.

According to Tuttosport, via MilanNews24, the Rossoneri are closely monitoring Marusic’s contract situation at Lazio, with talks over a renewal yet to reach a breakthrough. His current deal expires in June 2026, meaning he is free to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with other clubs during the winter window.

ROME, ITALY – OCTOBER 26: Toma Basic of Lazio celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with teammates Adam Marusic (L) and Mattia Zaccagni (R) during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and Juventus FC at Stadio Olimpico on October 26, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

Milan view the Montenegrin as a low-risk, high-reliability addition, particularly suited to Massimiliano Allegri’s tactical demands. Marusic’s versatility allows him to operate on either flank, offering defensive discipline and consistency, qualities Allegri values when managing a long season across multiple competitions.

Milan serious about Marusic as defender heads for Lazio exit

The player’s Serie A experience is another key factor. Unlike overseas options who may require an adaptation period, Marusic would arrive with a deep understanding of the league and its demands. That familiarity is well known to sporting director Igli Tare, who originally brought Marusic to Lazio and remains an admirer of his professionalism and tactical intelligence.

MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 09: Federico Dimarco of Internazionale crosses the ball past Adam Marusic of Lazio during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and SS Lazio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 09, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Milan’s preference is to secure Marusic on a free transfer in June, allowing them to allocate resources elsewhere, particularly toward reinforcing central defence. However, there is also a secondary scenario in play. Should negotiations between Marusic and Lazio remain stalled, Milan could move quickly to formalise a pre-contract agreement in January.

For now, the Rossoneri are waiting, but the groundwork has already been laid as they seek to strengthen smartly rather than spend heavily.