According to reports, Milan were shaken by the strong reaction of fans to Julen Lopetegui rumours and are re-evaluating their choice of coach, looking at Paulo Fonseca.

La Gazzetta dello Sport suggested that the Rossoneri were closing in on their decision to fire Stefano Pioli at the end of the season and bring in Lopetegui.

However, the response from supporters was so virulent in its rejection, resulting in #Nopetegui trending on social media and even a petition set up to block the hiring, that it was difficult to ignore.

Sky Sport Italia transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio now claims the message got through and Gerry Cardinale is reconsidering the idea of appointing the former Real Madrid, Spain, Sevilla and Wolverhampton Wanderers boss.

Milan look at other candidates

Instead, Milan chiefs Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Giorgio Furlani have been urged to re-evaluate the candidacy of Fonseca, who will be a free agent when his contract with Lille expires on June 30.

However, Di Marzio reiterates that there has not been an approach with Antonio Conte – who seems to be closer to Napoli – or Brighton and Hove Albion manager Roberto De Zerbi.

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