October 13, 2007
AC Milan’s situation at goalkeeper seems to be a volatile one. With their appeal to UEFA still pending, the club is looking to expand its options in the net. Dida is still the go-to guy for Milan, they are reportedly looking to add a proven keeper to the mix for the immediate future.
As far as potential replacements go, it looks like Milan will look to poach a keeper from La Liga. Reports and rumors indicate that Villarreal keeper Diego Lopez is on the top of Milan’s list. Lopez was previously with Real Madrid, but his rights were purchased for the hefty price of six million euros during 2006. Because Lopez has been around for a while and has proven to be an ultra reliable option in the net, AC Milan sees some value there.
According to published reports, AC Milan made contact with former Real Madrid goalkeeping coach Franco Tancredi. The purpose of that contact was clear, as the club sought to uncover more information about their potential replacement goalkeeper. Milan was reportedly encouraged by the positive review provided by Tancredit, as the former Roma legend put forth a solid recommendation for the player.
There are a few other names being thrown into the ring, as well. CKSA Moscow goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev is only a young man at age 21, but he has drawn some serious looks from the Milan brass. Akinfeev has played internationally with Russia, including a couple of appearances in the 2004 European Championships. He is a player who is thought to be a future star of many years, so Russian clubs aren’t likely to let him walk for less than a king’s ransom. Akinfeev will be on display in the next couple weeks as his club with square off with Inter in Champions League tie action.
Posted in Champions League
