AC Milan ready to extend Ibrahimovic’s stay

AC Milan is planning to reward Swedish striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic with a new contract.

Since the 39-year-old joined the Rossoneri in January last year, The Diavolo has a record rise in their position on the log. They finished last season in the Europa League spot and later qualified for the tournament’s knock-out stage.

They continued their meteoric rise in the domestic front but faltered a few weeks ago to Inter and Spezia. They later recorded a 1-1 in the midweek against Udinese before returning to Hellas Verona’s winning ways at the weekend.

Italian media reports that Ibrahimovic, who is edging to a return to the national team, is close to extending his contract with the San Siro outfit. The media also reported that the Rossoneri also have a contingency plan for a new young striker.

Ibrahimovic has a deal with the club till June 2021, but the 39-year-old striker is open to staying at the club until 2022.

Speaking with a new media outlet on Sunday after the team’s win, he said if Paolo Maldini wants him to stay further at the club, he is up for it.

The newspaper further reported that Milan has no intention of parting with the lanky striker. This has therefore brought about optimism regarding his contract extension for one more season.

Ibrahimovic will be 40 in October. This is an opportunity for them to use him as a guide to younger players. Ibrahimovic has reportedly helped the Rossoneri in the dressing room. His influence is huge, and the Rossoneri are aware of that crucial role he played in developing the club and young players.

Although an extension talk is on the way, what remains unclear is if there will be an increment in his €7m-a-year salary.

Knowing fully well that at 40, Ibrahimovic won’t be able to play every game. Milan directors have therefore planned to sign a new, young centre-forward for the 2021-22 campaign.

Torino’s Andrea Belotti, PSV’s Donyell Malen are on the Rossoneri’s radars. Mino Raiola could help facilitate the purchase of the dutchman as he is also his agent.

Written by: Oladipupo Mojeed