AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS - NOVEMBER 11: Sergio Ramos of Spain in action during the international friendly match between Netherlands and Spain at Johan Cruijff Arena on November 11, 2020 in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Sporting stadiums around Netherlands remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)

Milan Reached Out to Real Madrid Star to Bolster Defense

Milan had some explorative talks with Sergio Ramos, whose contract with Real Madrid expires in June, however his requests are sky-high and therefore he is set to move elsewhere if he does end up leaving, Sky Sport and Repubblica pundit Paolo Condò informed.

The journalist, who is the only Italian to vote for the Balloon d’Or, added: “A friend from Madrid told me that Sergio Ramos will not stay there next season. I know for sure that, if Paolo Maldini called him directly, he would seriously consider joining Milan. It would be a great honor for him to play with the Rossoneri. When I passed along this piece of information, the executives told me that they enquired, but the wages he is asking for are very bloated, therefore I believe he will go to PSG or to a Premier League club.

After over 15 years and 668 appearances with the Merengues, the 34-year-old defender could indeed leave the Spanish team. According to Marca, the sticking point in the negotiation is not the salary, as he is open to taking a slight pay cut, but the length of the deal, as the Galacticos would prefer a short-term contract.

In related news, Ramos underwent surgery due to a torn meniscus in the left knee and will miss at least the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16 against Atalanta on February 24th and is not a lock to play in the return match either. Eden Hazard is highly likely to be sidelined as well due to a thigh strain.