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September 10, 2024

Real Madrid is Considering a Move for Maignan as Milan’s Contract Negotiations Stall – Ligue 1

Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan’s contract negotiations have hit a stalemate due to disagreements over his wage demands. With his current contract set to expire in June 2026, Maignan is reportedly seeking a substantial increase in his salary, with reports indicating that he’s asking for €7-8 million per season. This amount is significantly higher than the €5.5 million maximum that Milan is willing to offer and even exceeds the earnings of the team’s highest-paid player, Rafael Leao.

Maignan’s impressive performance since joining Milan from Lille in 2021 for €16.4 million has undoubtedly contributed to his belief that he deserves a higher salary. He played a pivotal role in the team’s Serie A triumph and advancement to the Champions League semi-finals. However, with negotiations stalling and rumors of interest from Real Madrid, Milan may be forced to reevaluate their position or risk losing their star goalkeeper to a rival club.

Maignan’s Contract Dispute Draws Real Madrid’s Attention

With Maignan’s unresolved contract situation, a transfer next summer seems increasingly plausible. According to TeamTalk, Real Madrid is closely monitoring the developments, as manager Carlo Ancelotti has been searching for a dependable goalkeeper for several seasons. Despite trying various options, such as Kepa Arrizabalaga, Andriy Lunin, and the experienced Thibaut Courtois, the Italian coach is still looking for a consistent shot-stopper.

While Maignan’s talent is undeniable, his injury history may concern potential suitors. The French goalkeeper has experienced multiple muscular issues throughout his career, including a calf strain that sidelined him for several months during the 2022-2023 season. However, suppose Real Madrid decides to pursue Maignan. In that case, they hope that a change in environment and a strengthened medical team could help mitigate these concerns and bring stability to their goalkeeper position.

Players are Likely to be Dropped from Spalletti’s Italy Squad

As Italy prepares for the upcoming matches against Belgium and Israel in October, coach Luciano Spalletti is expected to adjust his squad. While experienced Italy internationals Nicolo Barella, Federico Chiesa, and Manuel Locatelli are anticipated to rejoin the team, Spalletti’s preference for a smaller, more focused group could mean several players may be left at home.

With Juventus’ ongoing struggle to find their identity under Massimiliano Allegri, some players might be at risk of being excluded from the national squad. Among those potentially on the chopping block are right-back Giovanni Di Lorenzo, who was recently outperformed by Nico Williams in a match against Spain, and left-back Federico Dimarco, whose calf injury could see him sidelined.

As he did during Euro 2024, the coach might prioritize a balanced and cohesive group over individual talent, leaving out big names such as 17-goal striker Riccardo Orsolini and several other well-known players. These changes demonstrate Spalletti’s commitment to fostering a unified, determined team that can deliver strong performances on the international stage.

Players at Risk of being Excluded by Spalletti

Recent reports suggest that key players Nicolo Barella, Federico Chiesa, and Manuel Locatelli are expected to rejoin Italy’s national football team for the October matches against Belgium and Israel. The three players, absent during the team’s victories over Israel and France in September, are anticipated to make a comeback under coach Luciano Spalletti’s guidance.

It is believed that Spalletti intends to make like-for-like replacements in his squad, meaning that three players from the current 23-member group could be removed. Speculations are rife about potential changes:

• Barella’s return might lead to the replacement of Atalanta’s Marco Brescianini, who made his international debut in the recent matches against France and Israel.
• Chiesa’s inclusion could result in Lazio’s Mattia Zaccagni missing out on the October games, given his limited playing time in the previous international break.
• If Locatelli is rewarded with a return to the national team, he might replace his Juventus teammate Nicolo Fagioli.

Impressive performances from Samuele Ricci, Sandro Tonali, and Davide Frattesi in the recent matches may also influence Spalletti’s decisions regarding squad composition. As the Azzurri gear up for their Nations League games in October, fans eagerly await the final lineup that Spalletti will field against Belgium and Israel.

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