Gianluigi Donnarumma is still only 20-years-old. After being AC Milan’s number one option at goalkeeper for nearly four years now, more and more rumours have risen about his potential departure. This, of course, is mostly due to Milan’s recent inability to qualify for the Champions League. According to Gianluca Di Marzio, Paris Saint-Germain are targeting the elite shot-stopper.
How AC Milan Replace Gianluigi Donnarumma
PSG’s Interest
Leonardo Araújo is back as PSG’s sporting director after a season at Milan. PSG had been interested in Donnarumma in the past, but Leonardo was surely convinced that the Italian is ready for a move after watching him first hand.
Milan, however, place a lot of value on their prized possession. Donnarumma is a product of the youth system and has marked a name for himself as one of Italy’s top prospects. To have three full seasons as a starter under his belt at 20 is unheard of. Unfortunately for the Rossoneri, they may be forced into a move to comply with Financial Fair Play.
There is, however, confusion over PSG’s interest. After Di Marzio’s report, some are wondering if PSG is offering €20 million and Alphonse Areola or €50 million and Areola. After recent goalkeeping moves such as Kepa Arrizabalaga moving to Chelsea for €80 million last season, the latter offer seems more appropriate.
Donnarumma’s sale would bring in the cash needed for Milan to satisfy FIFA. Losing a generational talent, however, would not bode well on the field or with the fans.
Milan’s Options
The sale seems inevitable. The good news for Milan is that they will have plenty of options to revamp the squad after a move of this magnitude.
First off, the team’s best option would likely be to move for a cash only sale. Areola is a decent goalkeeper at best. The Rossoneri already have Pepe Reina, who is still capable of starting. Furthermore, another rising star from their youth system is Alessandro Plizzari. The young Italian has been very impressive for the national team’s youth ranks and has been at Milan long enough to understand the importance of the badge.
According to Di Marzio, Milan are interested in both Lucas Torreria from Arsenal and Dani Ceballos from Real Madrid. A Donnarumma sale would open the door to affording one of the players, if not both. Milan’s midfield is in need of a desperate turnover, and these players would be ideal for that.
As good as Donnarumma is and will become, goalkeepers are typically easier to replace than outfield players. Donnarumma’s departure will allow for financial flexibility for Milan. New manager Marco Giampaolo has clear targets and goals, and Donnarumma leaving may be the key for this.
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