AC Milan to rival Aston Villa for Julian Alvarez?

AC Milan have reportedly identified River Plate forward Julian Alvarez as a priority transfer target for 2022.

The 21-year-old has established himself as a key man at the Argentine giants, contributing 10 goals and three assists from just 12 league appearances this season.

While River Plate would naturally like to retain the services of the attacker, his contract is due to expire in December 2022.

According to Calciomercato, Milan officials made the journey to watch Alvarez in person at the weekend, an indication that they plan to make an official approach.

The report adds that Aston Villa, Bayer Leverkusen and Ajax are also monitoring the situation ahead of attempting to sign Alvarez in January.

Despite possessing a release clause of €25m (£21.09m), Alvarez may potentially be allowed to leave for lower than that figure.