Gianluigi Donnarumma could be leaving Milan within 12 months, that means that Milan need to prepare right now for a future without the goalkeeper. Thankfully, despite Donnarumma’s talent, it’s not a position that can’t be replaced. Milan are in the market for a new goalkeeper - so here are a bunch who could replace him
Alessandro Plizzari
Milan already have a replacement for Gigio - and it’s another boyhood Milan fan. Plizzari is 17 and is following the same path as Donnarumma, starring in the youth team. He’s all set to break through now that there is an opening. The talent is undeniable, but can he follow in Donnarumma’s footsteps? What’s more - Plizzari seems genuinely committed to Milan. We thought that about Gigio, though.
Mattia Perin
Mattia is one of the obvious choices to replace Gigio in goal. What’s more, he is actively being shopped to Milan by his agent. He’s been around for a while, yet he’s still only 24 - Milan are a team which could help him step up his game and realise his potential. However, there is one issue - this former Azzuri keeper has had a number of knee ligament worries. If Milan sign him, they need to ensure that Plizzari is ready to go. They might stay away from him based on those issues - which could be smart.
Bernd Leno
The Bayer Leverkusen shotstopper would be a great choice for Milan, as long as they are serious about the development of Plizzari. The German international is currently being chased by Arsenal, and there are a few questions about some of his habits - namely his tendency to punch the ball out from the back. He’s still young, and has a lot to learn - but he is certainly a Champions League calibre keeper and Milan would be wise to capture him as soon as possible.
Keylor Navas
Navas is currently starting for Real Madrid - but that could be set to change. If Real follow through on their interest in Donnarumma, it might be that Navas moves in the opposited direction as part of the deal. The Costa Rica international was a star at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, and has performed well for Real - winning two Champions League trophies, the La Liga title and more. Navas is used to the swap deal and would have moved to Manchester United if the David De Gea transfer didn’t fail. Navas would be a great choice for Milan - a senior figure to tutor Plizzari, with a huge goalkeeping pedigree.
Neto
Neto is the dark-horse here. Milan fans don’t want him as he was happy to bench-warm for Buffon at Juventus, but he’s a talented shotstopper. The Bianconeri keeper is an excellent distributor of the ball and will be tons more comfortable playing out from than back than Donnarumma.