Is Indonesia's top center-back about to join a prestigious European club?

04/12/2025 17:57:00 ScoreStream

AC Milan is reportedly monitoring Indonesian center-back Jay Idzes, as his style of play and rapid development align well with coach Allegri’s tactical approach.

Jay Idzes — the young captain of Indonesia’s national team and a key player for Sassuolo — is attracting attention in Serie A after appearing on AC Milan’s watchlist. According to Sky Sports Italy, the Rossoneri hold him in high regard for the swift progress of the 25-year-old player and consider him a modern center-back fitting Allegri’s tactical system. Although no formal negotiations have taken place between the clubs yet, Milan is reportedly united in their plan to keep monitoring Idzes, especially given his standout performances in the 2025/26 season.

Joining Sassuolo in summer 2025 from Venezia, Idzes quickly became an indispensable part of the defense. He has started 12 of 13 Serie A matches this season, playing a total of 1,080 minutes and helping the team secure a mid-table position with 17 points.

AC Milan values Idzes’ versatility in the three-man defensive line

His aggressive style, excellent game reading, and especially his ability to build play from the back make Idzes one of the most exciting discoveries of the season. Sky Sports emphasized: “AC Milan is interested in defender Jay Idzes. He is favored due to his age, potential, and adaptability within a three-center-back formation.”

One key factor attracting Milan is Idzes’ capability to perform well in all three positions of the three-center-back system — a critical aspect of Allegri’s philosophy. Furthermore, according to Sky Sports, the Rossoneri highly appreciate Idzes’ disciplined mindset, as he has not received any yellow cards so far this season.

The transfer market also reflects his rising value. Transfermarkt estimates Idzes at €7.5 million (approximately 202.5 billion VND), while Sassuolo might demand around €10 million if Milan officially makes an offer.

Idzes is among the most significant naturalized players for Indonesia’s national team since 2024

Born in the Netherlands and formerly part of the Oranje youth squads, Idzes chose to naturalize as Indonesian — his maternal grandparents’ homeland — in 2024. Since debuting for the “Garuda Team,” he has immediately become the defensive leader due to his European experience. His presence further strengthens the wave of Indonesian players competing in Europe’s top five leagues, alongside names like Kevin Diks and goalkeeper Emil Audero.

Within Milan, the need to strengthen the center-back position is genuine. Despite having Tomori, Pavlovic, Gabbia, and newcomer De Winter, the Rossoneri seek an additional versatile player ready to rotate and compete in the second half of the season. Before rumors about Idzes surfaced, there were even reports that Sergio Ramos offered to join San Siro voluntarily, adding intrigue to Milan’s decision-making process.

Sassuolo may demand up to €10 million for this deal

If the Rossoneri officially pursue the transfer, Jay Idzes will face the biggest opportunity of his career: moving from a Serie A newcomer to a target of one of Europe’s most historic clubs. This could be a turning point, elevating him from Sassuolo’s rising star to a key piece in AC Milan’s rebuilding ambitions.

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