Stefano Pioli hopes "complete" Real Madrid loanee stays at Milan

Brahim Diaz could return to Santiago Bernabeu when his loan deal at Milan ends in June.

Milan manager Stefano Pioli wants to keep Brahim Diaz beyond his current loan deal from Real Madrid.

Diaz joined the Rossoneri on a two-year loan move in July 2021. Since then, the Spaniard has developed into a key player for Pioli’s side, playing as an attacking midfielder at San Siro.

Diaz’s impressive form has intensified reports about his possible return to Real Madrid in the summer. However, Pioli says he’s happy to work with the 23-year-old.

“He’s a complete player, I’m happy to work with Brahim and I feel he’s happy here at Milan. We will see,” the AC Milan boss said.

Italian sources have claimed Real Madrid will most likely accept bids from Milan for a permanent transfer. Diaz has a €22m purchase option in his loan contract.

However, Milan News claims the Rossoneri are keen to sign Diaz for a lower fee. According to the Italian outlet, Diaz’s interest in staying at Milan could play a significant role in convincing Real Madrid to allow his departure.

Aster Vranckx is another loanee whose contract will expire in June. The 20-year-old midfielder has made seven Serie A appearances since arriving from Wolfsburg in September.

Asked whether his side will trigger their buy option for Vranckx, Pioli responded: “It’s too early to say, we’ll see”.