Milan deliver final verdict on 'protagonist' Donnarumma's future

Juventus and Barcelona have been mooted as possible landing spots for the shot-stopper, who’ll be a free agent in about a month’s time.

AC Milan technical director Paolo Maldini has confirmed Gianluigi Donnarumma will leave the club in the summer.

Milan and Donnarumma were unable to find common ground despite prolonged contract extension talks, with the player reportedly demanding €12 million per season and the club unwilling to offer more than €8 million-a-year wages.

Having joined the club’s youth academy at the age of 14, risen through the ranks and earned a promotion to the first team in 2015, made 251 senior appearances and won a Supercoppa Italiana, and established himself as one of the top young goalkeepers in world football, he has now made his mind on parting ways with his boyhood club.

“He was a protagonist, a leader, and often a captain,” said Maldini during an interview on the official AC Milan Twitch channel.

“A professional must also be ready to change his shirt. It is increasingly difficult to start a career in one place and finish it there.

“We must thank those who gave so much for Milan and Gigio did it, without ever disrespecting the club. Our paths divide here and I can only wish him the best.”