AC Milan have rubbished claims by Gazzetta dello Sport that they want Tottenham Hotspur transfer target Alessio Romagnoli to leave Mino Raiola out of talks over a new contract.
The Serie A outfit released a statement on Tuesday declaring they maintain professional relationships with all agents ‘without any foreclosure’.
Gazzetta dello Sport had reported the Rossoneri want to speak directly with Romagnoli and not through Raiola over his contract. The centre-back’s current terms expire next June, but the San Siro hierarchy hope to agree a new deal with their captain by the end of the year.
But Milan also want to reduce their spend against a mountain of debt, so asked Romagnoli to lower his wage. Dropping from €6m-a-year (£99k-a/w) to around €3.5m (£57k-a/w).
A tough task with super-agent Raiola overseeing negotiations, amid a backdrop of interest.
Reports by Calciomercato.it claim Antonio Conte is keen for Tottenham to target a transfer to poach Romagnoli from AC Milan.
A January deal may also be possible for €10m (£8.5m), given his expiring contract, if Conte cannot wait until June.
Should Tottenham seize on Milan contract standoff for Romagnoli transfer?
Milan would be loath to lose Romagnoli to Tottenham in the January transfer window. The 26-year-old has featured in eight, starting six, of their Serie A fixtures so far this term.
Stefano Pioli’s side have also kept three clean sheets when the 12-cap Italy ace has started. Helping the Rossoneri to sit level on 32 points with Napoli, but second on goal difference.
Additionally, he has started two of their four Champions League group stage fixtures so far. But Milan already look set to exit the competition on their first appearance since 2014.
While a standoff over personal terms in a new contract could also see Milan lose Conte’s transfer target, Romagnoli, to Tottenham in either the January window or next summer.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
