Mike Maignan Speaks Out On His AC Milan Future With Two Replacements Eyed Up

Mike Maignan is not allowing himself to be distracted by transfer rumours, with his future at AC Milan uncertain.

Mike Maignan Focused On Italian Super Cup

The goalkeeper has yet to agree a new contract despite his current deal only running until the end of the season.

As a result, the stand-off has led to speculation that he could move on next summer, with Chelsea retaining an interest. However, Milan want Maignan to stay and are open to giving him a significant pay rise.

It was reported earlier this week that he has until February to decide whether he will pen fresh terms, and that the San Siro giants do not want to allow the uncertainty to stretch into the latter stages of the campaign.

The 30-year-old is said to have been offered a salary which could make him the joint-highest earner at the club, alongside Rafael Leao. But no agreement has materialised, leaving his future unclear, and the clock is ticking.

Milan jetted out to Saudi Arabia for the Italian Super Cup on Tuesday, and Maignan faced the press. Unsurprisingly, he was questioned on his contract stand-off but insisted his focus is solely on the semi-final against Napoli.

“How difficult is it to play with a contract expiring? The most important thing is what I can do every day,” he said.

“Of course my future is talked about, but it must not distract me. I have to stay focused to give my best. Today is not the time to talk about the future. I have to give everything tomorrow night and then see what happens.

“This year we’re more of a family, a group where everyone gets on well.”

Milan Identify Two Mike Maignan Replacements

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Milan are eyeing up two goalkeepers should Maignan leave.

Both stoppers, Lens’ Robin Risser and Berke Ozer of Lille, are being closely tracked by the club. Coincidentally, they also ply their trade in France, just like Maignan before he made his move to the San Siro in 2021.

Risser, 21, has impressed at Lens and been capped by France’s youth groups up to U-21 level.

On the other hand, Ozer is 25 and boasts more experience under his belt. A two-cap Turkish international, he has previously played for Westerlo in Belgium as well as several clubs in his homeland.

Only preliminary talks have taken place at this stage, but negotiations could advance depending on Maignan’s decision. FootItalia previously reported that Liverpool’s Alisson Becker is another potential replacement.