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U.S. defender Antonee Robinson's AC Milan move falls through on deadline day

Wigan Athletic left-back and United States international Antonee Robinson's move to AC Milan fell through at the last minute and he will remain with the Championship club.

Robinson, 22, had been in Milan for a medical ahead of completing the move, but Wigan announced on Friday that further medical tests were required by Italian authorities and the deal could not be completed before the deadline.

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A club statement from Wigan said: "Wigan Athletic defender Antonee Robinson will remain at the DW Stadium after his move to AC Milan could not be completed.

"Robinson, 22, travelled to Milan this morning after the two clubs agreed a fee for the permanent transfer on Thursday evening.

"The USA international underwent a medical examination with AC Milan, though further medical tests with the Italian authorities were required, which were subject to a 72-hour deadline.

"As such, the deal could not be formally ratified before the 8pm Italian Transfer Deadline on Friday."

Milan would not comment on why the deal fell through when asked by ESPN.

ESPN's Gab Marcotti told FC TV that although this deal did not get over the line in January, there is a chance the two sides will revisit the move in the summer.

To shore up their defensive needs after the collapse of the Robinson deal, Milan club recalled Uruguay international Diego Laxalt back from his loan at Torino.

Robinson -- born in England to an American father -- has been tabbed by many as an answer to the never-ending search for a left-back for the U.S.

The youngster, who rose up in the Everton youth ranks, joined Championship side Wigan last summer after an initial loan spell with the club in 2018-2019. He also did a loan stint with Bolton Wanderers from 2017-18.

Despite the team's struggles in England's second division, Robinson has been a key contributor for Wigan with 29 starts, while scoring one goal.

Robinson's national team performances have been a mixed bag, but he does boast attributes like pace and crossing ability that make him an intriguing option long-term for Gregg Berhalter's side. However, of Robinson's seven appearances for the U.S., only one has come during Berhalter's tenure.

Milan did announce the acquisition of Belgian winger Alexis Saelemaekers from RSC Anderlecht, on loan until the end of the Serie A season, with an option to make the deal permanent.