AC Milan director Paolo Maldini has confirmed that work is underway to renew three more of the club’s prized young players.
Milan are working on several key renewals now that the transfer window has closed. Rade Krunic and Sandro Tonali each signed one-year extensions recently, but Maldini and Ricky Massara will not stop there and they are hoping to secure the long-term future of other players that they consider to be pillars of their project moving forward.
Maldini spoke to Sky before tonight’s game against Dinamo Zagreb to preview another important Champions League night and also reflect on the business the club did in the summer and hope to do moving forwards, with his comments relayed by MilanNews.
On the Champions League: “We may not be ready to reach the final this year, but dreaming costs nothing. In my opinion, the other big names don’t want to face us either. We are behind some clubs, but we are following a path and we are doing it quickly. Then it is the pitch that speaks and if we happen to be protagonists we must take the opportunity.”
On taking a big leap in Europe: “It’s more complicated because the level is higher. Compared to last year we have greater awareness. One more year counts a lot.”
On the summer transfer market: “I am happy with the transfer market we did. I think this year’s team is stronger than last year.”
On Leao’s renewal: “We have already started talking about it for some time with Leao, Bennacer and Kalulu. Is Leao’s more complicated one? Each renewal can be more complicated or easier. The will of the players goes a long way, the will of the club is.”
On the role of being a director: “In the stands you suffer more than on the pitch. I can’t sit still. I ask Massara about things during the game and he doesn’t answer me (smiles). I really struggle, but you get used to everything.”
On the new new ownership: “The chances of Milan already this year and next year will be greater because there will be more revenues. To compete for the Champions League, we need more, we know. But dreaming is a must, otherwise I wouldn’t be here.”