AC Milan have leapfrogged Barcelona in the race for outgoing Olympique Lyonnais forward Memphis Depay as Paolo Maldini intensifies talks with the player’s entourages. According to Daniel Speranza, the Rossoneri are firmly in contention for the Dutchman’s signature.
With the prospect of a long-awaited Champions League comeback ever so likely, Milan are on the lookout for top-class recruitments.
Despite the odds, the Lombard giants were long one of the leading candidates to claim a shocking Serie A title this season. There’s a genuine feeling that the lack of depth in the squad eventually cost Stefano Pioli’s the crown. And that’s what Malidini looks to provide in the summer.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic has been a paramount influence in Milan’s imperious top-four run, but the Swede will be 40 next season. The superstar striker’s playing time will have to be managed smartly, which requires the Rossoneri to dive into the market to address that issue.
As a result, the Serie A heavyweights have reignited their interest in ex-target Memphis Depay. The former PSV Eindhoven starlet is out of contract at the end of the season, which perfectly fits the type of business Maldini is looking to complete in the summer.
Unwilling to waste any time, the Italian has already made in touch with Depay’s representatives to understand the feasibility of the move.
Following a torrid 18-month stint at Manchester United, the Netherlands international has found his feet in Ligue 1, establishing himself as one of the most lethal forwards in Europe’s top-five divisions. His supreme showings at the Groupama Stadium have attracted interest from several of Europe’s most prominent clubs, including Barcelona.
The Catalans were determined to land the 27-year-old last summer but failed to meet Lyon’s asking price. Since the French outfit cannot throw a spanner in the works this time around, Ronald Koeman is looking to bring his countryman to La Liga at the end of the season.
However, the Dutch manager may not remain at the helm in 2021/22 following a dreadful debut campaign in Spain. Newly-elected Barcelona president Joan Laporta has yet to decide what to do with Koeman. If the Spanish giants opt to part ways with the 58-year-old, Milan may well remain the lone runners in the race for Depay’s signature.