Chelsea set to pounce as two factors cause target’s contract talks to stall

Chelsea are on alert after negotiations between AC Milan and Gianluigi Donnarumma for a new contract stalled, according to reports.

Donnarumma has been outlined as a top target for Chelsea in the summer. The goalkeeper could be available on a free transfer, so even though Edouard Mendy has impressed, it could be too good an opportunity to turn down. His potential arrival would also likely push Kepa Arrizabalaga out.

Since becoming a Milan first-team player at the age of 16, Donnarumma has continued his development. Already with more than 200 Serie A appearances to his name despite still only being 22, he has also risen to the rank of vice-captain for the Rossoneri.

However, despite his desire to stay with the club, contract talks have come to a standstill. According to Gazzetta Dello Sport, there is a difference in the wages on offer and what Mino Raiola wants his client to receive.

Therefore, time is ticking for them to come to a compromise and Chelsea could pounce.

Another factor that is concerning for Donnarumma is the risk of missing out on the Champions League. Not so long ago, Milan were unlikely challengers for the Serie A title, but have fallen off the pace since. Now, they face a battle to stay in the top four.

Admittedly, Chelsea also have work to do in that department. They are currently the nearest rival to fourth-placed West Ham in the Premier League, trailing their fellow Londoners by one point.

Donnarumma has never played in the Champions League but is keen to test himself at that level. Therefore, Milan must finish the season strongly if they are to have any hope of keeping him.

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If not, a move to Chelsea could be tempting. The Blues would be able to offer him a starting berth, with Mendy presumably dropping to second-choice despite his efforts.

It always seemed like Mendy may have been a short-term reinforcement to replace Kepa anyway. Now, Chelsea could get a more high-profile goalkeeper in Donnarumma and still have a reliable backup.

Offer already tabled for Donnarumma

A recent report claimed that Chelsea had already approached Donnarumma with a contract offer.

According to Eurosport, Chelsea are keen to land the Italy international on a free. As such, they have made their interest known to Donnarumma and Raiola.

Blues director Marina Granovskaia has reportedly told them they are willing to offer a wage package worth £195,000 per week. What’s more, Donnarumma would receive a signing-on fee and Raiola would be guaranteed a cut.

Hence, Donnarumma will not be completely free – but would still be a very good value-for-money signing.

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