AC Milan seem to have been left with no choice but to satisfy the demands of midfielder Franck Kessie, according to Carlo Pellegatti.
Kessie was a key player for Milan in the 2020-21 season becoming an immovable member of the starting XI and making the double pivot something that Stefano Pioli used as a comfort blanket of sorts.
His current deal will expire in 2022, so Milan are working on renewing his contract given what has happened with Calhanoglu and Donnarumma. Pietro Balzano Prota recently reported that the Ivorian has no intention of leaving the Rossoneri because he is happy to be part of the squad and ‘feels important and like a leader’.
The well-known journalist Carlo Pellegatti (via MilanNews) spoke about the situation regarding Kessie’s renewal, confirming the current state of affairs after a meeting between the parties.
“There was the famous meeting between AC Milan and Kessie’s agent, but that ended with nothing. The Rossoneri have offered around 3.5 million euros per season, a figure quite far from that requested by the Ivorian midfielder’s agent,” he said.
“Kessie’s agent was very clear with the AC Milan managers: we don’t want to waste too much time, our request you know it well (we are talking about 5-6 million), when you have decided to come and meet us call us, otherwise don’t call us. Now Milan must be able to uncork a discount from Kessie.
“The Rossoneri club are now at a crossroads: a winding road taken with Donnarumma and Calhanoglu, and then wait to close the deal, or satisfy the requests of Kessie and his entourage and make a decision. In my opinion, Milan do not seem to have great ways out after the goodbyes of Gigio and Calhanoglu.
“Losing Kessie would be a serious damage not only technical, but also of image for Elliott. The fund is gaining approval in all of its shares. Kessie becomes a new litmus test on the ambitions of the club.”
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