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The Belgian striker is surplus to requirements at the Serie A giants but there are a handful of clubs he could choose to join
Divock Origi was among players left out of AC Milan’s pre-season tour of the United States at the weekend with coach Stefano Pioli making it clear that he is not in his plans for next season.
The striker endured a torrid campaign after joining the Serie A giants from Liverpool last summer, scoring just two goals, but Milan have already given up on a player that they gave a five-year contract worth an annual salary of €4m just one year ago.
With Origi now surplus to requirements, what are his options?
Premier League
After eight years on the books of Liverpool, albeit with loan spells in France with Lille and Germany with Wolfsburg, enjoying success, Origi opted for Italy after falling out of favour at Anfield but he could soon return to England if current reports are to be believed.
According to Italian outlet La Gazzetta dello Sport, Origi could soon be joining West Ham for €8-10m with Gianluca Scamacca moving to AS Roma on loan with an obligation to buy.
The Rossoneri would save €12m net if he leaves the club this summer, plus income from his sale.
Origi’s move to West Ham would help Roma get Scamacca on loan with an obligation to buy tied to their qualification for the Champions League in 2023-24.
Saudi Arabia
As per the source FootballInsider, Origi is being targeted by Saudi Arabian side Al-Ettifaq who are currently coach by Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard.
Gerrard’s side are reportedly offering him a ‘huge money’ deal that would see him link up with his former Liverpool team-mate and captain Jordan Henderson.
Given the big number of high-profile players who have switched from Europe to Saudi, Origi, the son of former Harambee Stars striker Mike Okoth, could jump at the opportunity to ‘secure the bag’ just like many are doing.
Belgium
Belgian outlet Voetbal reported on Tuesday that RKC Genk are monitoring Origi with the possibility of snapping him up from Milan.
Genk are in the market for a striker and are said to be ‘secretary admiring’ Origi, who honed his skills at the club.
The Belgian striker began his career at Genk's youth academy where he spent nine years before signing for French side Lille in May 2010, aged 15, after turning down an approach by Manchester United.
It would, therefore, represent a sensational return for the 28-year-old although the asking price could put Genk off since they are believed to have a limited budget.
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