The agent of Chelsea loanee Mario Pasalic has hinted that his client could opt to reject a return to London as he continues to enjoy his spell with AC Milan.
The Croatian international scored his first goal for the Rossoneri in their 2-1 win over Crotone on Sunday, and has gradually started to work his way into Vincenzo Montella’s plans.
While he will now hope to build on his performance at the weekend and keep his place in the side, his agent has cast doubt over whether or not his long-term future lies with Chelsea.
“He’s going through a good period thanks to Montella who has given him confidence,” his agent Marko Naletilic told MilanNews.
“Will he stay permanently? Right now we won’t talk about it, we’ll see what happens, right now it’s important for him to play well and help the team.
“I’ll tell you that he’s in love with Milan, so that should let you know what Pasalic wants. Clearly he’s aware of what Milan means in the history of world football.”
Given that there is a long way to go this season and that much will depend on whether or not Pasalic can stay in Montella’s plans, it’s too early to suggest that a return to Chelsea should be ruled out.
Nevertheless, there’s no denying that if the 21-year-old is given regular playing time in Milan, it could sway his decision to push for a more permanent move to the San Siro if Antonio Conte is unable to offer the same assurances.
With Mati Fernandez out with an injury and Andrea Bertolacci returning from his own setback just this past weekend, there is an opportunity for Pasalic to place himself near the top of the pecking order.
Time will tell if both he and Milan wish to convert his temporary spell into a permanent one, while Chelsea will undoubtedly have their say too if they’re left impressed with his form.