MILAN -- Franck Kessie's new contract negotiations with AC Milan have reportedly stalled according to La Gazzetta dello Sport, reported by Football Italia, Thursday (30/9). Both parties are adamant about their wishes.

The Ivory Coast international's contract expires next summer. The midfielder, who was sent off for receiving two yellow cards during Milan's 2-1 loss to Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, has not agreed to Milan's offer.

The newspaper claims there has been no progress in new contract talks. Milan reportedly offered Kessie a new contract until June 2026 with an annual salary of 6.5 million euros per season.

While the midfielder and his agent asked for 8 million euros. Both parties remained steadfast in their demands. Nothing can bridge their desire to reach an agreement.

The Rossoneri don't want to lose Kessie on a free transfer like Hakan Calhanoglu and Giorgio Donnarumma this summer. If current developments continue in the next few months it is not impossible that Kessie's fate will be the same as Donnarumma and Calhanoglu.

Kessie became an important part of coach Stefano Pioli's game scheme. He is an energetic midfielder and is quick and physically strong. He also has the ability to stab into the heart of the opponent's defense and occasionally score goals.

Kessie was bought permanently from Atalanta in the summer of 2019 after previously being on loan. This season, he made six appearances in all competitions for Milan. In total he made 190 appearances and 30 goals for Milan in all competitions.

Kessie ogled by a number of top European clubs. Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United and Chelsea are English clubs interested in Kessie. Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid are also rumored to want to use Kessie's services.