AC Milan trigger €5m buy-back clause to re-sign Gabbia from Villarreal

AC Milan have exercised their buy-back option to re-sign defender Matteo Gabbia from Villarreal for €5 million, the club confirmed on Thursday. The 24-year-old Italian centre-back returns to San Siro on a four-year contract through June 2028 after spending last season on loan with the Rossoneri.

Gabbia initially joined Villarreal in January 2023 as part of a €5 million deal that included Milan's repurchase rights. His strong performances during last season's loan spell, making 23 Serie A appearances, convinced technical director Geoffrey Moncada to activate the pre-agreed clause. The move provides defensive reinforcement following Simon Kjaer's departure while allowing Villarreal to recoup their initial investment.

The Lombardy-born defender came through Milan's youth academy before making 72 senior appearances between 2020-2023. His return bolsters Stefano Pioli's options ahead of Milan's Champions League campaign, with Gabbia expected to compete with Malick Thiaw and Fikayo Tomori for starting spots. Medical tests are scheduled for Friday before official confirmation.