The AC Milan management know that they must try and make headway in the negotiations over Mike Maignan’s renewal or they may well face a very tough decision come the summer.
Maignan did not start for France last night as they lost 2-0 to Germany in a friendly in Lyon because coach Didier Deschamps and his staff didn’t feel like risking the goalkeeper from the first minute after he arrived at the training camp with some discomfort.
In the meantime, Calciomercato.com report that the issue of Maignan’s renewal is something the management are thinking about. To extend his current deal, which expires in 2028, the entourage of the former Lille man expect an offer equal to or greater than Rafael Leao’s €7m net per year.
Maignan, who currently receives €2.8m per season, wants similar if not even greater recognition after the Portuguese winger extended last year. For the moment, Milan’s idea is to propose doubling his salary, therefore reaching €5.5m/yr.
The gap is significant but not impossible to close. The talks were supposed to begin in spring, and during the international break there were extensive contacts between the parties, the beginning of a complicated negotiation but which involves optimism and the desire to find a meeting point.
While that continues in the background, Maignan will have to continue to try stay fit, make big saves and prove himself as one of the best in the world, also justifying the interest of some top European clubs.
Speaking of which, Bayern Munich are thinking of the Frenchman for the post-Neuer era, while Chelsea are keen too. Milan want €100m minimum to come to the negotiating table, the same value given to compatriot Theo Hernandez.
The pillars of Pioli’s squad are not categorically untransferable, but dizzying offers are needed. Otherwise, the slow-burning renewal talks will continue over the weeks and months to come.
