Duncan Castles explained that Chelsea had made contact with AC Milan’s Gianluigi Donnarumma over a possible transfer this summer, speaking on the Transfer Window podcast.
Milan’s talented goalkeeper is out of contract at the San Siro in July and is yet to negotiate a new deal.
This has understandably ramped up the interest from abroad, with several European clubs eyeing an opportunity to sign one of the games generational talents.
Italian and footballing icon Paolo Maldini once said ‘he’s pure talent’ and ‘a pure diamond’ when describing Donnarumma (RMC).
Chelsea and Manchester United are the two Premier League clubs apparently jostling for his signature.
According to Castles, both English clubs have already made an approach to Donnarumma’s celebrity representative, Mino Raiola.
He said “Our information is that both Chelsea and Manchester United have been in talks with Raiola about Donnarumma.
“It looks like Donnarumma has an opportunity to move to England, should he choose to.
“Accompanied by the commission that Raiola seeks and would want for free transfer of such a valuable asset.
“There is an opportunity for either club and others to secure Donnarumma on a longer-term contract without their being a fee.”
If Donnarumma doesn’t extend his stay in Italy, then the likes of Chelsea or United could seal his signature for no upfront cost.
On paper, this sounds like an incredible bargain for a player who has already made 237 appearances for Milan before his 23rd birthday.
There is, of course, a catch.
Ian McGarry explained that Donnarumma is ‘currently paid £6m net’ by Milan, but ‘Raiola is asking Milan for £10m to renew his contract’ (Transfer Window).
Meeting Raiola’s demands would make him the highest earner at Chelsea, which may cause a stir in their camp.
Their main focus has been on acquiring a new centre-back, but it is certainly a story to keep tabs on.
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I’m split on this one.
A bit like Erling Haaland, Donnarumma is a one-of-a-kind player who will be snatched up in an instant.
If Chelsea were to move, they need to do it now.
But with two goalkeepers already in the squad, I don’t quite see the need for him just yet.