Real Madrid youth team prodigy was ‘one step away’ from signing for AC Milan in May

Real Madrid came close to losing one of their brightest young prospects earlier this year. 

According to journalist Matteo Moretto (via Madrid Xtra), right-back Jesus Fortea was ‘one step away’ from signing for AC Milan in May. 

Talks between the Italian giants and the player’s camp had advanced quickly, and a transfer looked very likely.

However, the arrival of Xabi Alonso as manager changed everything. The Spaniard immediately made it clear that Fortea was part of his plans and personally asked the club to secure the youngster’s future. 

As a result, Real Madrid moved swiftly to renew his contract, tying him down until 2029.

“Milan moved concretely between April and May, but the arrival of Xabi Alonso blocked this type of transfer, asking Real Madrid to renew his contract, which they did until 2029. 

“But Milan was really very close to Fortea,” Moretto revealed.

Why Fortea stayed at the Bernabeu

Fortea was close to moving to AC Milan. (Photo by Ricardo Nascimento/Getty Images for DFB)

The renewal was not a straightforward decision for the young defender. Fortea had to reject two lucrative proposals from Champions League clubs, one from Serie A and another from the Bundesliga. 

Both offered first-team contracts and higher wages than what Real Madrid put on the table. Even the Premier League showed interest, but their project did not guarantee him a clear path to senior football.

What ultimately swayed Fortea was his strong connection to Madrid and the trust shown by key figures at the club. 

The presence of Alvaro Arbeloa at Castilla and Alonso’s plan to integrate him into the first-team setup were decisive.

For now, the case is closed. Fortea will remain a Real Madrid player until at least 2029, a move that not only secures his future but also reinforces the club’s long-term project of blending academy talent with first-team strength.