Kyle Walker future: Man City 'discover' AC Milan's decision over permanent move for defender

AC Milan have reportedly decided to pursue a permanent deal for Manchester City loanee Kyle Walker.

Walker joined the Italian giants on loan in January after struggling to find his best form in the first half of the season with Man City.

The 34-year-old was no longer a guaranteed starter under Pep Guardiola and ultimately headed off to Italy in search of regular game time.

Walker went on to start seven of his first eight Serie A appearances for Sergio Conceicao's side, but has been unable to regain his spot since he returned from an injury absence.

The England international has had to settle for substitute appearances in each of the club's last three Serie A matches, including Friday's 3-1 win over Bologna.

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AC Milan make Walker decision

There has been some speculation suggesting that Milan could decide against signing Walker on a permanent deal this summer.

However, according to MilanLive, the Rossoneri are still planning to sign him on a permanent transfer, although they could look to negotiate a new fee with Man City.

As it stands, Milan have the right to exercise a €5m (£4.2m) buy option to sign a player who is set to enter the final 12 months of his Man City contract.

The Serie A side are keen to negotiate a new fee of €3.5m (£3m), although it remains to be seen whether Man City will accept such a proposal.

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Walker signing could push Emerson Royal towards exit door

Milan are unlikely to be able to offer Walker Champions League football for next season, with the Rossoneri sitting in eighth place in the Serie A table.

In fact, there is a possibility they could miss out on European football altogether, although they could still qualify for the Europa League via the Coppa Italia.

While it remains to be seen whether Milan qualify for UEFA competition, there is no suggestion that Walker's potential move hinges on whether the club can secure European football.

However, his permanent arrival would likely bring an end to Emerson Royal's Milan career just one year after joining from Tottenham Hotspur.

Emerson has failed to convince during his time in Italy and is likely to be moved on this summer so Milan can enter the 2025-26 campaign with Walker and Alex Jimenez as the right-back options.