Christian Pulisic is among the latest to have become the subject of transfer speculation over the past few weeks. After enjoying a surprising and impressive 18 months with AC Milan, the American sensation has been linked with a move to Liverpool. As the rumors continue to swirl, the Serie A side is already bracing itself to cover its bases by offering Pulisic a new contract.
This day had to come, considering how remarkable the 26-year-old has been for the Italian giants so far. With 8 goals and 6 assists in over 20 games, the former Dortmund star has been running a riot of great performances. So it’s only natural for Milan to protect their star player from getting poached by powerful clubs like Liverpool. So what’s their plan?
Even though AC Milan already had the option to renew Pulisic’s contract until 2028, reports from Italian journalist Daniele Longo suggest that the club’s CEO, Giorgio Furlani, and former striker-turned-advisor Zlatan Ibrahimovic have decided to reward their No. 11 with a special adjustment to his contract. This means Pulisic will reportedly receive a close to €1 million ($1.2 million) per year pay rise, increasing his current salary from €4 million ($4.1 million) to €5 million ($5.2 million) net per season.
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This move reportedly helps Milan fend off interest from Liverpool, as the new agreement will make it increasingly difficult for the Reds to lure him away. In fact, it is said that this offer had been in the pipeline for Pulisic, as the Rossoneri’s club chiefs hold the American winger in high regard, believing he has much more to deliver. Maintaining such faith in Pulisic proved beneficial, dating back to the €22 million ($23 million) they paid Chelsea to bring the forward to San Siro.
Though many called it a risky move, considering the poor stint he endured with the Blues, everything seems to have turned out quite well. Then again, being linked with his former club’s rival brings him an opportunity to make a lavish return to England. While it’s unclear what decision Pulisic will make, he has been advised to reject Arne Slot and Co.!
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Christian Pulisic urged to stay put at AC Milan amid Liverpool interest
Since revitalizing his career at AC Milan, Liverpool has been eyeing Pulisic as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah. However, USA legend Charlie Davies has advised Mr Captain America against making the move, despite Arne Slot and Co.’s strong form. “Why would you [go there] at this stage? I’d say, ‘Give me another year. After the World Cup, we’ll talk.’ Because you’re in a perfect situation,” advised the former striker.
Davies insisted that even if Pulisic wishes to play for Liverpool, he would advise him to wait until at least the 2026 World Cup. This is because a potential move to Anfield could jeopardize his domestic playing time, affecting his form under Mauricio Pochettino and Co. Still, there are calls for the winger to avoid a move to the Premier League altogether.
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Notably, in addition to Liverpool, Manchester United and West Ham were also been linked with Pulisic. But aside from Charlie Davies, another US icon pair of Tim Howard and Landon Donovan had also previously cautioned Christian about not choosing Liverpool, reminding about his failed Chelsea stint where he mostly received the ‘short end of the stick.’
Be that as it may, it surely is a crucial decision for Christian Pulisic to either stay put at AC Milan or join Liverpool. But what are your thoughts? Let us know in the comments.
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Should Pulisic risk a Premier League return, or stay where he's thriving at AC Milan?
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