The Rossoneri have reportedly rejected several verbal approaches for the 2006-born forward, including interest from Brighton, and are considering a new agreement with improved financial terms. Cisse’s existing contract runs until 2030, but Milan want to reward his development and strengthen their position against potential suitors.
The decision reflects the impact he has made since establishing himself in the first team. Cisse has scored five goals in nine Serie A appearances, earning recognition from Italy head coach Roberto Mancini and a call-up to the senior national squad.
His progress has also vindicated Milan’s decision to recruit him from Verona. The club paid €8 million to secure his signature, with the Rossoneri moving ahead of PSV after the Dutch side had appeared close to completing a deal.
Cisse has now explained why he chose AC Milan, despite PSV offering the possibility of an immediate move while the Italian club were prepared to let him finish the season in Serie B.
“The WhatsApp group of my friends exploded: ‘Alpha, is it true?!’ And I said: ‘Yes, guys, yes!’ I didn't want to make the wrong choice. PSV wanted me immediately, while Milan would have allowed me to finish the season in Serie B. Two great clubs, but Milan… how do you explain that?” he told Cronache di Spogliatoio.
“I was experiencing a mixture of emotions. My parents told me to stay calm and that the best was yet to come. We decided that this was the right choice. And seeing how things are going, I would say we were right.”
The move did not immediately provide a straightforward introduction to life at Milan. Cisse explained that his first visits to the club’s Milanello training centre were connected to treatment for an injury, which left him questioning how his arrival would develop.
“The first times I came to Milanello, I did so to recover from my injury. Milan had left me in Catanzaro, yes, but after a few days I got injured. I had some big doubts: ‘I arrive at Milan after an injury, let's see how it goes’,” he said.
He also credited coach Ruben Amorim with helping him through that period, explaining that their first conversations focused on his fitness and what would be expected of him on the pitch.
“It's a good person, who knows how to deal with us young players. And he knows how to keep my feet on the ground. Although I'm not someone who likes to let his mind wander.”
Milan's willingness to reject approaches and prepare an improved contract underlines how highly they rate the young forward. Having beaten PSV to his signature and seen him make an immediate impact, the club now wants to ensure that his development continues in red and black.