The long-running saga of Divock Origi at the San Siro has finally reached its end. On Monday, December 22, 2025, AC Milan officially confirmed that the Belgian striker has signed his contract termination by mutual consent, making him a free agent effective January 1, 2026.
For Milan fans, the news is being hailed as an early "Christmas Miracle," freeing the club from one of its most expensive and least productive contracts in recent history.
The "Frozen Out" Hero: A Difficult Spell Ends
Origi’s move to Milan from Liverpool in 2022 was initially greeted with excitement, but the "Big Game Player" never found his footing in Serie A.
The Cost: Origi was earning a reported €4 million net per season (roughly €300,000 per month).
The Performance: In 27 appearances for the Rossoneri, he managed just two goals.
The Limbo: Origi has not played for the Milan first team since May 2023. He spent last season on a lackluster loan at Nottingham Forest and spent the current 2025/26 campaign training individually or with the Milan Futuro youth squad in Serie D.
The Breakthrough in Negotiations
Talks to terminate the deal—which was set to run until June 2026—had been stalled for months due to a combination of severance fee disagreements and tax complications related to Italy's "Growth Decree."
However, multiple sources including La Gazzetta dello Sport confirm that a settlement has finally been reached:Severance Package: Origi has reportedly agreed to a payout of less than half of his remaining salary to secure his freedom.
The "Fullkrug" Domino: The termination coincided with the arrival of German international Niclas Füllkrug in Milan, with Origi’s vacated wage slot reportedly making the deal financially viable.
What’s Next for Origi?
At 30 years old, the Champions League winner is now free to negotiate with any club for the January transfer window. Despite his lack of recent game time, his pedigree as a "cult hero" still makes him an attractive prospect.
Potential Destinations:
Genoa: Recently linked with a move for a striker to boost their survival hopes.
Monza: Known for picking up experienced Serie A veterans on free transfers.
The MLS or Saudi Pro League: Both have reportedly monitored his situation throughout his exile in Milan.
The Verdict: While the Milan chapter was a failure, Origi remains a player capable of "impossible" moments. With his fitness levels currently a question mark after a year of individual training, his next move will be a true test of his ambition to return to elite football.