Bologna initially requested Saelemaekers in June, but Milan declined. However, Milan later offered him to Bologna on August 25, indicating a change in their willingness to negotiate.

Alexis Saelemaekers mentioned his time at Bologna, where he took on a more significant role in the group, which changed him as a player.

Saelemaekers was on loan at Bologna where he made a significant impression. However, Bologna did not have the financial means to sign him permanently, leading to his return to AC Milan.