AC Milan renewals on hold: Champions League qualification calls the shots
At AC Milan, the hot topic right now revolves around contract renewals, all currently suspended pending one crucial outcome: qualification for next season’s Champions League. This single variable is shaping not only extension talks but the Rossoneri’s entire transfer market strategy.
The names on the table: Tomori, Bartesaghi, Loftus-Cheek, Pulisic and Leão
The list of players involved includes several high-profile figures. Fikayo Tomori, whose deal appeared to be on the verge of completion, has seen negotiations grind to a halt. The same applies to young Davide Bartesaghi, a promising talent the club considers key for the future, and Ruben Loftus-Cheek, the English midfielder who has experienced an up-and-down campaign.
A similar situation surrounds Christian Pulisic: the American, a standout performer this season and a mainstay of Milan’s attack, is still waiting for news regarding his extension. The most complex case, however, is that of Rafael Leão. The Portuguese winger already earns a substantial salary, and any renewal negotiation promises to be far from straightforward. Milan’s leadership wants certainty regarding Champions League participation first, knowing full well that the outcome will have a decisive impact on the chances of reaching an agreement with the number ten’s representatives.
RedBird’s strategy: self-sustainability and flexibility
Behind this waiting game lies a clear strategy from RedBird Capital, the ownership group led by Gerry Cardinale. The approach is consistent with the philosophy adopted from day one: Milan must be financially self-sustaining. The ownership does not plan to inject additional funds into the sporting operation. If the club generates profits, a portion will be reinvested; otherwise, room for manoeuvre will inevitably shrink.
This logic also explains the savings on monthly wages: every month that passes without a renewal is a month where planned salary increases do not kick in — a detail that carries significant weight in the overall financial picture.
Key contract deadlines and potential departures
The contracts that deserve the closest attention are those expiring in 2027, particularly those of Tomori and Loftus-Cheek. The English defender and his compatriot midfielder represent two situations that need resolving sooner rather than later to avoid losing bargaining power.
There is also another scenario worth considering: should significant offers arrive for Leão or Pulisic, the Rossoneri’s management would not hesitate to evaluate them carefully. The guiding principle remains one of keeping all options open — no player is untouchable if the deal proves beneficial for the club’s finances and sporting project.
The goal remains Champions League: optimism for the season’s climax
It is worth remembering that Milan have spent much of the season firmly in contention for the top spots in the Serie A table. The squad has shown it possesses the quality to compete at the highest level, and confidence in securing Champions League qualification remains strong. Achieving that target would unlock not only the pending renewals but also an ambitious summer transfer window, capable of strengthening the squad at the coach’s disposal.
The coming months will prove decisive: as always, the pitch will have the final say.
