AC Milan has confirmed that Gianluigi Donnarumma will leave the club this summer as a free agent.
The Italian shot-stopper has been on a contract standoff with Milan, refusing to extend his six-year stay in the Milan first team. And now his departure has been confirmed by Milan technical director Paolo Maldini who affirmed that the club respected the 22-year-olds choice.
The former Milan defender told the club’s Twitch channel;
“Donnarumma made his Milan debut at age 16
He was a protagonist, a leader and often a captain”.
“A professional must also be ready to change his shirt,” Maldini continued. “It is increasingly difficult to start a career in one place and finish it there.”
“We must thank those who gave so much for Milan, and Gigio did it without ever disrespecting the club. Our paths divide here, and I can only wish him the best.”
In six seasons in the Milan first-team setup, Donnarumma made over 250 appearances and established himself as Italy’s number one goalie. At just 22 years, he is already considered one of the most experienced goalkeepers in the world and will not be short of suitors in an open market.
Manchester United are said to be interested in this Serie A goalie’s services as they see him as a replacement for David de Gea. Juventus are also credited with an interest in the shot-stopper who is seen as an upgrade to Wojciech Szczęsny and a long-term replacement for veteran goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon who is departing Juventus this summer.
