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AC Milan will attempt to prise Mario Gila away from Lazio by offering him a significant pay rise compared to his current salary.

The Spaniard has arguably cemented himself as one of the best defenders in Serie A, but his chapter in the Italian capital could come to an end this summer, as his contract will expire in June 2027, and there are signs of a renewal on the horizon.

Over the past weeks, Gila has been linked with a host of clubs in Italy and Europe, but most sources agree that Milan is the most determined suitor. The former Real Madrid defender has several admirers, at the club, including sporting director Igli Tare, who was the one to bring him to Lazio in 2022, and head coach Massimiliano Allegri, who has identified him as the ideal profile to bolster his backline.

It has also been reported that Milan’s owner, Gerry Cardinale, has given the green light for the purchase. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Rossoneri are ready to offer Gila a four-year contract with a yearly net salary of €3 million in addition to bonuses and incentives. This would effectively triple the player’s salary, as he only earns just over €1 million per year at Lazio.

The San Siro outfit can also lower the cost thanks to the Growth Decree, which was abolished in 2024, but remains applicable in Gila’s case, as it had been in effect when the player had first arrived in Italy. This rule allows Italian clubs to save 50% of the taxes related to player wages when signing players from abroad.

The pink newspaper reiterates that the biggest obstacle facing Milan’s hopes of signing the Spanish centre-back is the club-to-club negotiations, as Lazio president Claudio Lotito will open with a €30 million asking price.

This is considered a hefty figure for a player who’s running on an expiring contract. However, with Real Madrid owed 50% of the transfer fee, the Biancocelesti are gunning for a deal that guarantees them a decent return for one of their best players. Milan CEO Giorgio Furlani, who is renowned for his smooth negotiating skills, is expected to conduct the talks himself.

This article first appeared on The Laziali and was syndicated with permission.

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