Atalanta came forward for Saelemaekers shortly before the end of the transfer window, but Milan refused. According to Pianeta Milan, Saelemaekers is too important for the balance of Amorim's team. Nevertheless, the club mainly viewed him as a very important luxury from the bench and as someone who can come on in many positions. Milan wanted to keep him, but not necessarily as a starter.

Atalanta made an initial approach for Alexis Saelemaekers, a 27-year-old Belgian player. Saelemaekers is highly appreciated by the Bergamo club's sporting director, Cristiano Giuntoli, and coach, Maurizio Sarri. Milan immediately and firmly rejected the approach and does not intend to let the former Anderlecht player leave. Saelemaekers has a contract with Milan until 30 June 2031 with a net salary of 3 million euros per season. He has earned 28 caps and scored 3 goals for Belgium. His current market value is €20.00m, according to Transfermarkt.