Milan plotting new deal for Alexis Saelemaekers | OneFootball

Saelemaekers and Celik are perfect examples of meritocracy in action.

It’s a pity for the Belgian, who returned injured from his spell with the national team, having become a constant reference point down Allegri’s right flank.

He, as expected, completed his loan spells elsewhere (Bologna, Roma) before securing an increasingly Rossoneri future, with his Milan contract (currently expiring in 2027) set to be adjusted.

MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 28: Alexis Saelemaekers of AC Milan

celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between AC Milan and SSC Napoli at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on September 28, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

The Belgian winger has quickly become a reliable presence under the new management, earning praise for his versatility and work rate.

Milan view him as a valuable squad option capable of covering multiple roles on the right flank, and his professionalism on and off the pitch has strengthened the case for extending his stay at San Siro.

Saelemaekers & Celik set for contract talks

Celik, meanwhile, has become a guarantee for Roma, versatile and competitive, silencing the critics who once doubted he was fit for such a high-profile challenge.

His current deal runs out in June, but among players in similar contractual situations, he now has the strongest chance of continuing with his current club.

NAPLES, ITALY – NOVEMBER 24: Zeki Celik of AS Roma during the Serie A match between Napoli and AS Roma at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on November 24, 2024 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

Indeed, Celik has convinced everyone, Gasperini included, in the name of meritocracy.