JAKARTA - AC Milan technical director Paolo Maldini has confirmed that goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma will leave the club this summer as a free transfer.
Donnarumma made his Milan debut at the age of 16 and has established himself as one of the best young goalkeepers in world football after being Milan's starter for the past six seasons.
The 22-year-old goalkeeper will now have plenty of club options he can strengthen for next season.
"He is a protagonist, a leader and often a captain," Maldini said of Donnarumma during an interview on AC Milan's official Twitch channel, which Antara quoted on Thursday.
Oggi sul nostro canale @Twitch_Italy, ci sarà un ospite speciale: Paolo Maldini! 🔴⚫ Non-like la diretta at AC Milan Talk 👉 https://t.co/Kqc3VFanxk #SempreMilan pic.twitter.com/ctGyMauaPl
— AC Milan (@acmilan) May 26, 2021
"A professional must also be ready to replace his club" continued Maldini. "It's getting harder and harder to start a career in one place and finish it there."
"We have to thank those who have given so much to Milan and Gigio for doing so, without ever demeaning the club. Our paths are separated here and I can only pray for the best for him."
AC Milan have targeted Lille goalkeeper Mike Maignan as Donnarumma's replacement.
The French goalkeeper has been spotted in Milan this week ahead of a medical examination, with his move likely to be announced in the coming days.
Milan reportedly spent 15 million euros (around Rp261 billion) on Maignan, who helped Lille to the Ligue 1 title this season.
Chelsea, Tottenham and Juventus are among several clubs that have been linked with Donnarumma, with further reports suggesting that Barcelona are also ready to bid for him.
Donnarumma has made more than 250 appearances for AC Milan and 25 times for italy.
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