AC Milan have stepped up their long-term interest in Udinese headline performer Rodrigo de Paul. According to MilanNews, Paolo Maldini has established contact with the player’s representatives over a potential summer move to Lombardy.
De Paul has been on Milan’s wishlist for years, with several other Serie A sides also showing interest in the Argentine’s services. Inter Milan were linked with a move for the 26-year-old back in January, but Antonio Conte eventually decided to stick with Christian Eriksen.
Although he has three years left to run on his current contract at the Dacia Arena, the sought-after playmaker could shift allegiance this summer. He has enjoyed a stellar campaign in Udine, having racked up nine goals and nine assists in 33 Serie A matches so far this season.
De Paul’s remarkable showings for Udinese have brought him under the spotlight as the Rossoneri see him as the ideal replacement for Hakan Calhanoglu. The Turkish star’s future at the San Siro is hanging by a thread in light of the recent criticism he has been subjected to for stalling on penning a new deal.
Milan technical director Maldini has initiated talks with De Paul’s agents to try to understand the feasibility of the operation. Even though recent reports have suggested the Rossoneri are ready to offer Jens Petter Hauge as a makeweight in the deal, Maldini has shut down all such claims.
De Paul would be a massive addition for Stefano Pioli’s side, given his technical qualities and endless work rate. Following an underwhelming two-year stint at Valencia, the highly-rated midfielder joined Udinese in 2016 and has since excelled in Serie A.
During his five-year spell in Italy, De Paul has notched 34 goals and 35 assists in 181 outings for the Friulians.