Zlatan Ibrahimovic pushes for Antonio Conte to join Milan

AC Milan's search for a new manager has taken a dramatic turn, with the legendary Zlatan Ibrahimovic throwing his considerable influence behind the push to bring Antonio Conte to the San Siro helm. 

As Stefano Pioli's tenure looks increasingly shaky, the Rossoneri are already plotting a managerial coup that could shake up Italian football next season.

In a move that's got the Milanese talking, Zlatan Ibrahimovic has emerged as the key advocate for Antonio Conte's appointment. 

Now wielding significant clout as a consultant, Ibrahimovic's voice resonates through the corridors of power at Milan, making his backing of Conte a major factor in the club's next managerial move.

"La Repubblica" has shed light on this developing story, highlighting Ibrahimovic's critical role and his tight rapport with both Conte and Milan's hierarchy, including Gerry Cardinale. 

Ibrahimovic, a regular presence at Milanello, is leveraging his status to sway the decision-making process.

However, snagging Conte won't be a walk in the park for Milan. The former Inter Milan and Chelsea boss is hot property, with Napoli also vying for his signature. 

Conte's high salary demands and insistence on squad assurances—specifically, the retention of stars like Mike Maignan, Theo Hernandez, and Rafael Leao—pose additional hurdles. 

With Leao potentially in PSG's sights should Kylian Mbappe depart for Real Madrid, and Maignan and Hernandez attracting interest from elsewhere, Milan's ability to meet Conte's conditions remains uncertain.

Should the Conte deal fall through, Milan has a backup plan with names like Thiago Motta, Raffaele Palladino, Roberto de Zerbi, and even Jurgen Klopp on their radar.