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July 2007
OFFICIAL: Serie A 2007-2008 Fixtures
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Football Italia
Week 1
26/8/07 (return 27/1/08)
Fiorentina-Empoli
Genoa-Milan
Inter-Udinese
Juventus-Livorno
Lazio-Torino
Napoli-Cagliari
Palermo-Roma
Parma-Catania
Reggina-Atalanta
Siena-Sampdoria
Week 2
1/9/2007 (2/2/08)
Atalanta-Parma
Cagliari- Juventus
Catania-Genoa
Empoli-Inter
Livorno-Palermo
Milan-Fiorentina
Roma-Siena
Sampdoria-Lazio
Torino-Reggina
Udinese-Napoli
Week 3
16/9/07 (10/2/08)
Fiorentina-Atalanta
Genoa-Livorno
Inter-Catania
Juventus-Udinese
Lazio-Empoli
Napoli-Sampdoria
Palermo-Torino
Parma-Cagliari
Reggina-Roma
Siena-Milan
Week 4
23/9/07 (17/2/08)
Atalanta-Lazio
Cagliari-Palermo
Catania-Fiorentina
Empoli-Napoli
Livorno-Inter
Milan-Parma
Roma-Juventus
Sampdoria-Genoa
Torino-Siena
Udinese-Reggina
Week 5
26/9/07 (24/2/08)
Catania-Empoli
Fiorentina-Roma
Genoa-Udinese
Inter-Sampdoria
Juventus-Reggina
Lazio-Cagliari
Napoli-Livorno
Palermo-Milan
Parma-Torino
Siena-Atalanta
Week 6
30/9/07 (27/2/08)
Cagliari-Siena
Empoli-Palermo
Livorno-Fiorentina
Milan-Catania
Napoli-Genoa
Reggina-Lazio
Roma-Inter
Sampdoria-Atalanta
Torino-Juventus
Udinese-Parma
Week 7
7/10/07 (2/3/08)
Atalanta-Udinese
Catania-Livorno
Fiorentina-Juventus
Genoa-Cagliari
Inter-Napoli
Lazio-Milan
Palermo-Reggina
Parma-Roma
Siena-Empoli
Torino-Sampdoria
Week 8
21/10/07 (9/3/08)
Atalanta-Torino
Cagliari-Catania
Fiorentina-Siena
Juventus-Genoa
Livorno-Lazio
Milan-Empoli
Reggina-Inter
Roma-Napoli
Sampdoria-Parma
Udinese-Palermo
Week 9
28/10/07 (16/3/08)
Catania-Sampdoria
Empoli-Atalanta
Genoa-Fiorentina
Lazio-Udinese
Milan-Roma
Napoli-Juventus
Palermo-Inter
Parma-Livorno
Siena-Reggina
Torino-Cagliari
Week 10
31/10/07 (19/3/08)
Atalanta-Cagliari
Fiorentina-Napoli
Inter-Genoa
Juventus-Empoli
Palermo-Parma
Reggino-Livorno
Roma-Lazio
Sampdoria-Milan
Siena-Catania
Udinese-Torino
Week 11
4/11/07
Cagliari-Sampdoria
Catania-Atalanta
Empoli-Roma
Genoa-Palermo
Juventus-Inter
Lazio-Fiorentina
Livorno-Udinese
Milan-Torino
Napoli-Reggina
Parma-Siena
Week 12
11/11/07 (30/3/08)
Atalanta-Milan
Fiorentina-Udinese
Inter-Lazio
Palermo-Napoli
Parma-Juventus
Reggina-Genoa
Roma-Cagliari
Sampdoria-Empoli
Siena-Livorno
Torino-Catania
Week 13
25/11/07 (6/4/08)
Cagliari-Milan
Empoli-Torino
Genoa-Roma
Inter-Atalanta
Juventus-Palermo
Lazio-Parma
Livorno-Sampdoria
Napoli-Catania
Reggina-Fiorentina
Udinese-Siena
Week 14
2/12/07 (13/4/08)
Atalanta-Napoli
Cagliari-Livorno
Catania-Palermo
Fiorentina-Inter
Milan-Juventus
Parma-Empoli
Roma-Udinese
Sampdoria-Reggina
Siena-Lazio
Torino-Genoa
Week 15
9/12/07 (20/4/08)
Empoli-Cagliari
Genoa-Siena
Inter-Torino
Juventus-Atalanta
Lazio-Catania
Livorno-Roma
Napoli-Parma
Palermo-Fiorentina
Reggina-Milan
Udinese-Sampdoria
Week 16
16/12/07 (27/4/08)
Atalanta-Palermo
Cagliari-Inter
Catania-Udinese
Empoli-Genoa
Lazio-Juventus
Milan-Livorno
Parma-Reggina
Sampdoria-Fiorentina
Siena-Napoli
Torino-Roma
Week 17
23/12/07 (4/5/08)
Fiorentina-Cagliari
Genoa-Parma
Inter-Milan
Juventus-Siena
Livorno-Atalanta
Napoli-Torino
Palermo-Lazio
Reggina-Catania
Roma-Sampdoria
Udinese-Empoli
Week 18
13/1/08 (11/5/08)
Atalanta-Roma
Cagliari-Udinese
Catania-Juventus
Empoli-Reggina
Lazio-Genoa
Milan-Napoli
Parma-Fiorentina
Sampdoria-Palermo
Siena-Inter
Torino-Livorno
Week 19
20/1/08 (18/5/08)
Fiorentina-Torino
Genoa-Atalanta
Inter-Parma
Juventus-Sampdoria
Livorno-Empoli
Napoli-Lazio
Palermo-Siena
Reggina-Cagliari
Roma-Catania
Udinese-Milan
AC Milan eye Baptista loan
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Football Italia
Milan Vice-President Adriano Galliani has confirmed that Julio Baptista is a loan target for the San Siro outfit.
The Real Madrid forward, who is valued at £12m, has been included on Carlo Ancelotti’s wish-list after the Rossoneri were paired with several strikers, including Andriy Shevchenko and Ronaldinho.
“The situation is very clear, if Real are willing to let him leave on a loan deal with a buy-out option we can strike a deal,” explained Galliani.
“Otherwise we will make no changes and play with Clarence Seedorf, Kaka, Ronaldo, Pippo Inzaghi and Alberto Gilardino, which isn’t bad at all,” he said at the unveiling of the Rossoneri’s new strip.
“Kaka? No Real official asked for him or included Baptista in an offer for him, they know that he cannot be bought and that we will keep him for at least four more years,” added the official.
“Where would Baptista play? I don’t like to discuss these issues, in any case he could be fielded in any one of the three forward roles.”
Galliani also commented on young Internacional striker Alexandre Pato, who could soon join the Rossoneri outfit.
“I have read that Leonardo is in Brazil to discuss this operation, but it isn’t true. Ariedo Braida will travel to Porto Alegre this evening, we will see what happens,” he added.
“In any case after so many years in the world of football I have learned that there is no reason to fret over the summer market.
“If he joins us it will only be in January, otherwise there won’t be any dramas and he will play for another club,” concluded the former Lega Calcio chief.
Real make new Kaka bid
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Reports in the Spanish Press suggest that Real Madrid are ready to offer Milan £50m plus Julio Baptista and Antonio Cassano for Kaka.
The Brazilian has been repeatedly paired with the Merengues over the past year, after President Ramon Calderon promised he would sign the player during his election campaign last summer.
Milan have always denied that they intend to let the trequartista leave, suggesting instead that he would soon be offered an extension to his current contract, which expires in 2011.
Spanish newspaper Marca claimed today that Rossoneri Vice-President Adriano Galliani and Real sporting director Predrag Mijatovic met in Forte dei Marmi last weekend where a new bid was made.
According to the Spanish newspaper, Los Blancos have prepared a £50m bid, plus Milan target Baptista and Cassano, who Real are desperately trying to offload this summer.
The Brazilian midfielder, who is valued at £12m and will gain EU citizenship today, is a target for the Rossoneri, who have yet to finalise a major signing during this year’s transfer market.
However, Milan’s position does not seem likely to change as Kaka has repeatedly been indicated as one of the symbols of the San Siro outfit.
Internacional set Pato price
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Internacional of Porto Alegre have paved the way for Alexandre Pato’s departure by placing a £15m price tag on the Milan target's head.
The 17-year-old is one of the hottest properties on the transfer market and has attracted the interest of Chelsea, Real Madrid and Inter along with the Rossoneri.
“Pato’s rescission clause is set at £9.8m and whoever wants to sign him will have to pay that amount of money, which will go entirely to the club,” announced Internacional President Vitorio Pifero.
The remaining £5m would most probably be for the player’s agent Gilmar Veloz, who is expected to meet with Milan official Leonardo shortly.
The former midfielder reportedly travelled to Brazil on Monday, where it is understood he will offer Pato a five-year contract starting out at £800,000 per season, rising to £1.3m by 2011.
“Milan are flying over to Brazil to sign me? That is fantastic,” the youngster told Spanish newspaper AS over the weekend.
“However, I won’t be meeting with their emissaries unless Internacional and my agent give me the go ahead. All I can do is wait and hope.”
Lecco win pleases Kaka
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Football Italia
Milan’s Brazilian star Kaka has revealed his delight at scoring in the team’s first summer friendly against Lecco. “It always feels good to win.”
The Rossoneri, who were the last Serie A club to start pre-season training, defeated the Serie C1 outfit 4-0 on Sunday evening, with Ronaldo, Cristian Brocchi and Clarence Seedorf also hitting the net.
“It was great to score and win the first match of the season, it was really important,” Kaka told the Milan Channel.
“Last year I was not here for our opening game, but this time I was and I’m in great shape,” added the 25-year-old.
“I hope we will do even better than last year. I think it is important for us to start well, with everyone here for pre-season training.”
The attacking midfielder was thrilled after scoring, as he proved by celebrating with visible enthusiasm.
“There are no friendly matches for me, I always try to play every game with the same determination, trying to do my best, even if it isn’t an official fixture,” he continued.
“We have only been working for a week, but everything is going well. Obviously I still have to improve many aspects, but I am happy to be here for my fifth season with Milan,” he concluded.
Kaka will be boosted by praise from ex-Rossonero Manuel Rui Costa who revealed that he sees the Brasilia native as his successor.
“Apart from being a great person on and off the pitch, he is very good technically and physically and has a perfect understanding of the game,” the Portuguese midfielder stated in an interview UEFA magazine.
”He has a will to win and will become one of the best players in the world.”
AC Milan to lure Baptista?
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Football Italia
Rumours in Italy suggest that Milan are preparing a swoop for Real Madrid’s Brazilian forward Julio Baptista.
Rossoneri Vice-President Adriano Galliani [pictured] recently admitted that he was aiming to sign a non-EU player before the end of the summer transfer window, but has left the target’s name a mystery.
While speculation as to the identity of ‘Mister X’ has been rife with many names suggested, it now appears that the star in question is the man nicknamed ‘The Beast’.
Sources report that Galliani met Real Madrid sporting director Predrag Mijatovic in the Hotel Forte dei Marmi near Lecco where Milan played their first pre-season friendly on Sunday.
Whispers state that the San Siro outfit are willing to offer around £9m, but that the Spanish champions are asking for a figure closer to £12m.
The 25-year-old ex-Sevilla star has found himself out of favour at the Bernabeu and may be keen to cement a move to the peninsula.
Milan boss Carlo Ancelotti has made no secret of his desire to bring Julio Baptista to Lombardy and recently described him as ‘a top player with a fantastic future.’
Friendly: AC Milan 4:0 Lecco - match report
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Ronaldo and Kaka were on target in Milan’s first friendly of the summer, a comfortable 4-0 win over Lecco.
The Rossoneri are the last Serie A side to get their pre-season training started and Il Fenomeno scored their opening goal of the 2007-08 campaign.
Clarence Seedorf’s through ball allowed Ronaldo to spring the offside trap and beat the goalkeeper with a precise right-foot finish.
Seedorf was in fine form and also set up the second for Kaka before completing the scoring himself.
Cristian Brocchi got in on the action for the third, tapping in the rebound from Kaka’s parried effort.
There was a definite Selecao feel to the side, as Brazilians Marcos Cafu, Serginho, Kaka and Ronaldo combined brilliantly.
In the second half Seedorf hit the upright and Massimo Oddo also appeared to be in good form with some promising crosses.
“This team knows itself so well by now. We played with a good tempo and some fine football,” commented Carlo Ancelotti.
“I liked the style of the goals too. It has been a useful week. Kaka and Ronaldo have such quality that you can see it even though they are tired from the lack of match fitness.”
Milan: Dida, Cafu, Bonera, Kaladze, Serginho, Gattuso, Brocchi, Ambrosini, Seedorf, Kakà, Ronaldo
Pato only has eyes for AC Milan
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Chelsea, Inter and Real Madrid have targeted Alexandre Pato, but the young Brazilian says he only has eyes for “fantastic” Milan.
The Under-20 sensation is lighting up the transfer market and has already been labelled the new Kaka at the age of 17.
“Milan are flying over to Brazil to sign me? That is fantastic,” he told Spanish newspaper ‘As’ and several Brazilian media.
“I won’t be meeting with their emissaries unless Internacional and my agent Gilmar Veloz give me the go ahead. All I can do is wait and hope.”
It’s reported that on Monday consultant Leonardo will fly to Porto Alegre for negotiations with his club Internacional.
This weekend Coach Carlo Ancelotti stated that Pato would most likely arrive in January, as by that stage he would have turned 18.
The offer Milan have prepared is said to be in the region of £14m to beat competition from rivals Inter, Chelsea and Real Madrid.
It would be a similar scenario to the capture of Kaka in 2003, when Leonardo also acted as their representative to broker the deal.
In fact, Kaka’s presence is an important factor for Pato, as his family is very religious and wants to ensure there is a positive role model when he flies to Europe alone.
Pato will be given a five-year contract starting out at £800,000 per season, rising to £1.3m by 2011-12.
Ancelotti prepares for Pato
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Football Italia
Carlo Ancelotti insists that if Milan do capture Brazilian prodigy Alexandre Pato, it won’t be until January.
“He is a player with great potential, so it’s not an urgent matter. If he does arrive, then it will probably only be in January,” said the Coach.
It is reported that transfer consultant Leonardo will fly over to Brazil for talks with the Under-20 starlet next week, aiming to beat the competition from Inter and Chelsea.
Another potential summer signing is Julio Baptista, with a £12m offer for the former Arsenal striker proposed to Real Madrid.
“He is a good player who can do well in attack or midfield. His origins are as a midfielder,” added Ancelotti.
The Rossoneri have been criticised by the media and fans for not making any waves on the transfer market.
“The team is fine as it is. Either a player arrives who can make the difference, or we will stick with those who gave us so much reliability and took us to the Champions League trophy. If there’s a good opportunity, then we’ll take it.”
Ronaldo and Massimo Oddo were January signings and will be there from the start for Milan’s first friendly of the new season against Lecco.
“It has been a positive week of training and the match will close that cycle. We don’t expect anything in particular, as the team knows the system and is only really looking for match fitness now.
“We are seeking some more consistency this term. Last year we had a stuttering start to the campaign due to a number of factors, but this time we have the opportunity to start on the right foot.”
Of course no Milan Press Conference would be complete without mention of Real Madrid’s latest £60m bid for Kaka – and the inevitable denial from the Rossoneri – but this time Ancelotti took the sarcastic route.
“Kaka cannot eat or sleep for thinking of all this. He’s a wreck!”
AC Milan and Real meet in Moscow
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Milan take on Real Madrid in Moscow next week, the chance to discuss Julio Baptista and a new £60m offer for Kaka.
The two clubs will be at the tournament with Lokomotiv and PSV Eindhoven from August 3-5 and it could be a decisive moment in their transfer campaigns.
The Rossoneri will take this opportunity to make their firm £12m bid for striker Julio Baptista, who has returned to Madrid after a spell on loan at Arsenal.
On the other hand, newspaper ‘Globoesporte’ claims that Real have not given up their chase for Kaka and are preparing a record-breaking new offer of £60m.
The Brazilian has made it clear on numerous occasions, including earlier this week, that he has no intention of leaving Milan and that the door to Real “was never open.”
Yet the newspaper quotes Diogo Kotscho, a member of Kaka’s entourage, referring to the latest increased proposal.
“It is an offer that could make Milan change their minds,” he reportedly said. “I think this is an opportunity Kaka should think about carefully.
“The Real Madrid directors are in direct contact with us and are only waiting for Milan to call the meeting to come to Italy and complete the negotiations.”
Kaka’s agent is in Italy at the moment to discuss a contract renewal with the Rossoneri.
Gattuso's grand ambition
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Gennaro Gattuso is certain a major star will arrive to reinforce Milan and is already looking ahead to the Club World Cup.
“Our number one objective cannot help but be the Intercontinental crown,” said the famously rugged midfielder.
“It would be the perfect way to end this cycle of success. Our squad will remain in the history books, but we also know it would be tough for this particular group of players to win the Champions League again and go to Tokyo.”
Many of the old guard are on the verge of retirement, with Paolo Maldini expected to follow Billy Costacurta into the Rossoneri staff next year.
Nonetheless, there is a glimmer of hope for Gattuso in the fact they fought their way to the Athens triumph despite originally being excluded from the competition due to Calciopoli.
“We’re not the favourites in Serie A either, but football has recently taught us that the odds were made to be beaten, so…”
In order to help their cause, Milan would like some reinforcements, having only signed Luca Antonini, youth team player Mitja Novinic and veteran Ibrahim Ba.
Names ranging from Ronaldinho and Samuel Eto’o to Andriy Shevchenko and Didier Drogba have been mentioned frequently, but it doesn’t look as if any of them will arrive this summer.
“The problem is that the big names have not moved this term, the only exception being Thierry Henry,” explained Gattuso.
“I don’t think the other clubs have done that much more than us. Those who have champions hold on to them, although I believe sooner or later someone will arrive. Milan are on the prowl.”
The latest target is former Arsenal striker Julio Baptista, who could leave Real Madrid for £12m.
Oddo: Inter not favourites
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Milan defender Massimo Oddo doesn’t see Inter as the team to beat in Italy and has targeted the Scudetto and Champions League double.
Oddo arrived at the San Siro from Lazio in January in exchange for around £5m and Neapolitan left-winger Pasquale Foggia and lifted the Champions League trophy in his first season with the Diavoli.
Although Inter are seen as favourites by nearly every expert in the peninsula, the 31-year-old right-back insists that his side and Roma are just as good.
“I don’t think that Inter are superior,” he stated at a Press conference.“In football there are many factors that can decide the outcome of a season and those go beyond technical ability.
“We have such a psychologically strong side as we showed by winning the Champions League after the start we had to the season. I think that Roma have a quality team as well and that we are all equal.”
Milan’s priority for the coming season is generally seen to be the Scudetto after disappointing in Serie A last term, but Oddo won’t be willing to sacrifice European glory.
“I couldn’t choose between the Scudetto and the Champions League - I want them both,” he claimed.
“We’ve also got the chance to focus on an immediate target which is the European Super Cup. I know that it may not be the highest in the hierarchy of trophies, but I prefer to try and lift as many cups as possible.”
Milan face UEFA Cup winners Sevilla at the Stade Louis II in Monaco on August 31 to fight for the European Super Cup.
Motta in AC Milan's sights?
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Reports in the Italian Press suggest that Barcelona defensive midfielder Thiago Motta is Milan’s secret transfer target.
Rossoneri Vice-President Adriano Galliani [pictured] has revealed that he is lining up a swoop for a non-EU player and has named him ‘Mister X’.
After a barrage of potential names, sources in the peninsula believe they have identified the mystery man as 24-year-old Brazilian star Motta.
“Mister X is not Julio Baptista or Carlos Tevez,” Galliani hinted. “If possible we will sign Alexandre Pato plus another player.
“We were tempted to try and sign Emerson, but we didn’t want to take the shirt away from Yoann Gourcuff.”
Motta is ready to leave Barcelona after the arrival of Ivorian ace Yaya Toure this summer and technical director Txiki Beguiristain has confirmed the Sao Paulo native is heading for the exit.
“Motta’s time at the club is over,” he confirmed. “We have had numerous offers if he wants to leave.”
Importantly, Motta has Italian citizenship which will leave the Diavoli free to sign Pato in January. It is suggested that the fee demanded by the Catalan club will be just over £5m.
AC Milan target Julio Baptista?
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Football Italia
Julio Baptista could be Milan’s new target after Vice-President Adriano Galliani revealed that the Rossoneri will soon sign a non-EU player.
The San Siro outfit have yet to finalise an important capture during this summer’s transfer market and have been paired with several strikers, including Andriy Shevchenko, Samuel Eto’o and Ronaldinho.
“Those players are no longer on our list. We are planning a new signing, he is neither Italian nor an EU member, but could soon become one,” said Galliani this morning, fuelling the speculation over Baptista.
The attacking midfielder, who scored a sensational goal in Brazil’s 3-0 Copa America Final victory over Argentina, spent last season on loan in the Premiership with Arsenal.
However, the versatile forward is still owned by Real Madrid, who are keen to offload him after the appointment of new Coach Bernd Schuster, but would welcome a switch to the San Siro.
The Brazilian, who is close to gaining EU citizenship, is highly rated by Rossoneri Coach Carlo Ancelotti and is currently valued at £14m.
Gilardino wants winning feeling
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Alberto Gilardino is confident Milan can fulfil the fans’ desire for glory this season. “We want to win as much as possible.”
The Rossoneri started their pre-season training on Monday and the striker hopes to improve on last term’s performance, when he scored just 12 goals in 30 Serie A matches.
“Our condition is very good, we want to start the new campaign with great objectives and we are preparing well,” Gilardino told Sky Italia.
“Playing with Milan also means that we have great responsibility and we all know this. We are trying to work well, despite the rumours about the arrival of new strikers.
“We all have a great desire to do well already, starting from August with the European Super Cup,” continued the Italy international.
“We want to win this trophy, to then start a great championship and arrive at the World Club Cup in December in great shape. We shall try to win as much as possible.”
The former Parma hitman does not fear the competition of the other Rossoneri strikers and would be ready to welcome a new signing as well.
“Me, Ronaldo, Kaka and Fiippo Inzaghi are working well and we will try to do all we can for this team. In any case, if the club decides to invest on a great champion, we will be glad to welcome him.”
Vice-President Adriano Galliani confirmed that the club will soon sign a new man for their attacking department, but rules out the possibility that Andriy Shevchenko could return to the San Siro.
“We want a new striker before the closure of the transfer window and he will be a non-EU player,” said the Rossonero before entering the Lega Calcio offices this morning.
“However it won’t be Shevchenko, there are not the conditions needed for him to return to Milan.”
Kaka slams Real rumours
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Milan star Kaka has again hit back at claims he wants to join Real Madrid and pledged his future to the Rossoneri.
Last season's Champions League top scorer has often been paired with Real Madrid over the last year and admitted that he did meet Merengues officials, although he never asked to move.
“I never asked for Milan to rescind my contract. It is true that I spoke with the Spanish club, but Milan were immediately informed of that fact,” said Kaka in a press conference at Milanello.
“President Silvio Berlusconi said he sees me as a symbol of Milan? I hope to become a symbol of this team in the future. I am contracted until 2011 and I want to honour my agreement.”
Kaka insists that he never even considered the idea of leaving the San Siro, despite the impressive financial offer coming from Los Blancos.
“I never closed the door on Real Madrid because that door was never open in the first place,” argued the Brazilian.
“The issue has always been between Milan and Real Madrid. I learned from a friend of mine a while ago that money is not the only thing that matters,” concluded the Rossonero.
Inzaghi rejects MLS offer
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Filippo Inzaghi has revealed that he turned down an offer from New York Red Bulls. “I will end my career with Milan.”
The Rossoneri started their pre-season training in Milanello on Monday and the world champion made no secret of the fact he is looking to win more trophies with the San Siro outfit.
“I received a very interesting offer from New York. It’s an amazing city where there are many Italians,” admitted SuperPippo.
"Furthermore, I would have had the possibility of challenging David Beckham and his LA Galaxy team, and they would have covered me in gold,” added the former Juventino.
“However, I had no doubt whatsoever. I will end my career in the Milan shirt, which has become a second skin for me.”
Inzaghi, who was recently praised by football legend Pele, expressed all his pride in being a Rossoneri player.
“To wear this shirt is an honour and a privilege. Adriano Galliani strongly wanted me when I was at Juve and always defended me and helped me, the club has had a special rapport with me.”
Pele: Kaka's home is San Siro
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Brazil legend Pele believes Kaka is better off at Milan than Real Madrid and invites Pippo Inzaghi to join Santos!
The Merengues have a new Coach, but continue to claim that Kaka will be wearing their jersey either this season or the next.
Now he has received advice from the ultimate hero for all Brazilian football players – O Rey himself.
“I played for 20 years at Santos and was always faithful even if I received lucrative offers from Real Madrid and Juventus,” he told the ‘Gazzetta dello Sport.’
“I chose to stay where I had grown up, become a great, where the people loved me and I was happy. Money is not everything. That is a cliché, but it’s true.
“I don’t want to tell Kaka how he should behave, but just to look inside himself. He seems happy at Milan, so why should he change?”
The Rossoneri have a Selecao feel to them with Kaka, Ronaldo, Nelson Dida, Marcos Cafu and Serginho in their ranks.
They begin pre-season training on Monday and both Kaka and Ronaldo flew into Malpensa Airport this morning.
“If Ronaldo is physically fit, I really think he can be Number One in the world again,” continued Pele.
“He has to train consistently and it looks as if he has found the right atmosphere and motivation at Milan to be great once more. I think Ronaldo’s presence is very useful for the club and for Kaka.”
With President Silvio Berlusconi reportedly prepared to pay Ronaldinho’s £84m buy-out clause and Under-20 sensation Alexandre Pato close to a deal, there could be more Brazilians on their way.
“Pato is a good player, but not yet a champion. I think it is best to wait a little before bringing him to Europe. Look at Robinho and how long he took to show his quality for Real, because he was still a little green. It’s too early to say what player Pato will become. He has potential, though.”
Pele revealed he is a big fan of Milan’s homegrown contingent, above all Champions League Final hero SuperPippo.
“I don’t know if Milan really need a striker. They have Inzaghi, who is incredible! I thought it would be fantastic if I could bring Pippo to Santos. With him at the centre of the attack, we’d win five titles on the trot.
“There are no defenders able to mark him, not just in Brazil, as he always seems to score. Think about it and let me know!”
Cannavaro tracked by AC Milan?
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Football Italia
Although the former Juventus defender insists he won’t leave Real Madrid, there are reports Milan are in talks for Fabio Cannavaro.
The World and European Player of the Year has been linked with a return to Serie A with old club Juve, but according to the latest rumours coming out of Spain, his real destination is San Siro.
The Rossoneri have stated repeatedly they are looking to bring in a forward and this weekend there has been talk of both a swoop for Real Madrid benchwarmer Julio Baptista and £84m rated Ronaldinho.
However, it’s claimed that transfer guru Adriano Galliani is actually planning a surprise move for Cannavaro to strengthen an ageing defence.
Both Paolo Maldini and Alessandro Nesta are playing with recurring injury problems, while Marcos Cafu, Marek Jankulovski and Giuseppe Pancaro have also sat out long periods with fitness worries.
“I am staying here because I want to win the Champions League. It’s the only trophy I’m missing,” Cannavaro told Spanish newspaper ‘Marca.’
“I signed a three-year contract with Real Madrid, not with Fabio Capello, so I don’t see why I should leave because he’s gone. They keep saying I want a return to Italy, but it’s not true.”
Yet this statement could open the door to Milan after all. Real Madrid last appeared in the Champions League Final in 2002, beating Bayer Leverkusen 2-1.
The Italians have without doubt been the most successful side in the tournament over the last few years, winning it twice and appearing in three Finals in the last five seasons.
AC Milan's £ 84 mil. Ronaldinho bid
21.7 || webmaster
Football Italia
There are reports in the Italian media that Milan President Silvio Berlusconi is ready to pay Ronaldinho’s £84m buy-out clause.
The Rossoneri have made no secret of the fact he is their number one transfer target, but also confirmed publicly that Barcelona have no intention of selling him.
With this in mind, it seems that media mogul and former Italian Prime Minister Berlusconi is willing to break the bank to get his hands on the holder of two FIFA World Player of the Year awards.
The buy-out clause on Ronaldinho’s contract is a staggering £84m, but having had a frugal transfer campaign so far and with the Champions League victory bringing in new funds, the sacrifice is not impossible.
The Brazilian arrived back in Spain for pre-season training today and spoke enthusiastically of Thierry Henry’s signing.
“I feel great and can’t wait to get back to work,” he said. “We have made some high class signings and the issue of how we will all co-exist is for the Coach to work out.”
Frank Rijkaard has hinted he will try to use Lionel Messi, Ronaldinho, Samuel Eto’o and Henry in the same line-up, but this could unbalance the side.
It is rumoured that Ronaldinho has privately already reached an agreement over contract terms with Milan, ranging from wages to benefits and sponsorship deals.
Barcelona President Joan Laporta would be willing to sell for a high figure, but getting Milan to pay the full buy-out clause would ‘protect’ him from angry fans.
“President Laporta told me he would have to leave the country if he sold Ronaldinho,” revealed Berlusconi recently.
Emerson: Come get me, AC Milan!
21.7 || webmaster
Football Italia
Emerson has been told he can leave Real Madrid and the Brazilian admits he’s determined to join Milan.
“The four players I am thinking of for my midfield are Fernando Gago, Mahamadou Diarra, Ruben De la Red and Jose Luis Guti,” said new boss Bernd Schuster.
“The club knows that the door is open for Emerson to leave. Fabio Capello requested him and he is perfect for his style of play, but I have other ideas. I hope another figure arrives instead, someone more creative.”
‘Puma’ was brought to Madrid by Capello, who worked with him at both Roma and Juventus, so the future seems to be a return to Italy.
“I am ready to evaluate offers that come my way. Money is not everything in life,” Emerson told ‘Radio Gaucha’ in Brazil.
“Everything is difficult at Real Madrid. I am in the richest club in the world, but there is far more organisation at Milan.
“It all works like clockwork with the Rossoneri, both on and off the field. You never hear controversy, everyone wants to play for Milan.”
The experience in Spain has not left Emerson with a positive view of the Madrid hierarchy, who fired Capello days after winning a seemingly impossible Liga title.
“I paid the price for being one of Capello’s favourite players. I’ve never seen anything like it in my whole career.”
Cavani denies AC Milan talks
21.7 || webmaster
Football Italia
Edison Cavani will not leave Palermo despite the latest rumours linking him to Milan, confirmed the striker’s agent.
The Uruguayan joined the Rosanero in January but has been paired with the San Siro outfit, who have yet to complete a major signing during this summer’s transfer window.
“There is no truth in these reports, they are just rumours that have been spread but are totally groundless,” one of Cavani’s managers, Claudio Anellucci, told Stadionews24.
“I want to confirm that Cavani is very happy to be a Palermo player. It is true that I met Ernesto Bronzetti, but we did not speak about Cavani,” added the 20-year-old’s representative.
“There is absolutely nothing true about these claims and we did not receive any offer from Milan,” he concluded.
The highly-rated former Danubio star, who was also a reported target for Juventus before joining the Isolani, impressed in the Under-20 World Cup in Canada scoring two goals.
AC Milan in new Eto'o bid?
19.7 || webmaster
Football Italia
Milan Vice-President Adriano Galliano has flown to Barcelona, prompting rumours that he is planning to make a final bid for Samuel Eto’o.
The Rossoneri have openly admitted that they are searching for a high-profile striker with Cameroon star Eto’o amongst their principal targets.
However, Barca have stated unequivocally that the 26-year-old hitman is not for sale and the ex-Real Mallorca man has also insisted that he will be staying put.
It has been suggested though that the arrival of Thierry Henry may have unsettled Eto’o and that Milan’s vast transfer budget may be enough to break down his resistance.
Italian Press reports suggest that Galliani is in Spain to present an offer of around £30m which would be the maximum the Diavoli would be prepared to part with.
Meanwhile, Il Corriere dello Sport suggests that Real Madrid have attempted to prise Kaka’ away from the San Siro by proposing an eight-year contract worth around £9m per season until 2016.
Eto'o out, so AC Milan go Brazilian
18.7 || webmaster
Football Italia
Barcelona have slammed the door on Milan’s Samuel Eto’o bid, so their attention turns towards Alexandre Pato and Julio Baptista.
The Rossoneri named Eto’o as one of their prime targets and there were reports today that a £28m bid had been tabled.
However, this evening Barca President Joan Laporta responded to the interest in the Cameroon striker.
“Eto’o is not for sale. This coming season Barcelona’s front line while be a poker of stars – Thierry Henry, Ronaldinho, Lionel Messi and Eto’o.”
FIFA agent Ernesto Bronzetti also doubts that Milan could get their hands on the African hitman.
“I really doubt Eto’o will join Milan. Barcelona have no intention of selling their forward,” he noted.
So Carlo Ancelotti and transfer guru Adriano Galliani must turn their attention to other targets.
Already having a squad packed with Brazilians, they are again looking to the South American nation for reinforcements.
Milan’s interest in Under-20 World Cup starlet Pato is well known and they face a battle with Inter, Chelsea and Real Madrid for his services.
A new name to add to the list is Julio Baptista, who scored a sensational goal in Brazil’s 3-0 Copa America Final victory over Argentina on Sunday.
He spent this season on loan at Arsenal, but is still owned by Real Madrid and would be happy to accept the San Siro switch.
An attacking midfielder, he could allow Kaka to move further up the field to continue his goal-scoring exploits.
AC Milan prepare Eto'o bid
18.7 || webmaster
Football Italia
Milan are ready to offer £28m for Barcelona star Samuel Eto’o, according to reports in the Spanish Press.
The Rossoneri have repeatedly been paired with the Cameroon international as they search for a new striker and Vice-President Adriano Galliani confirmed that the striker is on the club’s wish list.
Spanish newspaper Marca claims that Milan are on the verge of making an offer to the Catalan outfit and that club officials will travel to Barcelona this week to present their official proposal.
Coach Carlo Ancelotti has allegedly convinced Silvio Berlusconi that Eto’o would adapt perfectly to the team’s tactics and would be a better signing than Ronaldinho, also a target for the San Siro side.
Reports in Italy in June had already suggested that Galliani was considering a £28m bid for the African – who could be offered a £4m-a-year contract.
Eto’o, who was linked with a move following Thierry Henry's arrival at Barcelona, is a reported target for several of Europe’s big clubs, including Arsenal and Chelsea.
Galliani on the offensive
16.7 || webmaster
Football Italia
Milan Vice-President Adriano Galliani has declared that there will be a big-name striker arriving at the San Siro this summer.
The Rossoneri have yet to make a splash in the market, while rivals Inter and Juventus have already struck important deals, but Galliani has confirmed that his club is chasing several big names.
“I would say that our attacking department is fine just as it is, with Alberto Gilardino, Kaka, Ronaldo and Filippo Inzaghi,” said the official.
“It is true, however, that we are chasing another great champion, but I prefer not to reveal any names out of respect for the players’ clubs.”
Strangely, Galliani then confirmed that Didier Drogba, Samuel Eto’o, Alexander Pato, Ronaldinho and Andriy Shevchenko are all on Milan’s wish list.
“Yes, those five names are correct, although there is a sixth one, which I will not tell you even under torture,” he joked. “In any case, the new signing will be a non-EU player.”
Galliani was then asked to comment on Ricardo Oliveira, one of the biggest flops last season, who will join Real Zaragoza on loan.
“I wouldn’t be that negative about the player, he was requested by four different Spanish clubs and that means that his true value is not under discussion.
“We loaned him out in order for him to prove what he can really do – next year we will see,” concluded Galliani.
AC Milan on Emerson trail
15.7 || webmaster
Football Italia
Real Madrid midfielder Emerson is back in talks for a move to Milan after the situation stalled earlier this summer.
The former Roma and Juventus star had been heavily linked with Carlo Ancelotti’s squad and a transfer was thought to be imminent straight after the end of the Liga season.
Milan general manager Adriano Galliani told journalists that there would be no bid for Emerson, as the club wanted to let Yoann Gourcuff develop this term instead.
However, the young Frenchman is still struggling with injury, so it seems as if the interest in ‘Puma’ is back on.
According to the ‘Corriere dello Sport’, it would only take around £4m to bring the experienced midfield maestro to San Siro.
He has already made it clear he is eager to join fellow Brazilians such as Marcos Cafu, Nelson Dida and Ricky Kaka.
Emerson’s agent, Gilmar Veloz, also represents another Milan transfer target – Brazilian Under-20 starlet Alexandre Pato – and is currently in Italy.
The Rossoneri must also focus on bringing in another striker, as they have loaned Ricardo Oliveira to Real Zaragoza.
Kaka: Forget me, Real!
14.7 || webmaster
Football Italia
Kaka has put a stop to those Real Madrid reports that come out of Spain every day. “Milan are my priority.”
The Brazilian has been named as a transfer target for the past two years and newspapers ‘Marca’ and ‘As’ have repeatedly claimed he asked the Rossoneri to be released.
“Milan are my priority,” he declared in ‘Diario de Hoje’ in his homeland.
“I have not planned a move to Real Madrid, nor have I been contacted by any directors. My only plan is to finish my holiday so I can get back to representing Milan.”
Kaka could not have been clearer, but this is still unlikely to end the reports emanating from the Spanish Press every day.
During the interview he also praised Internacional’s Alexandre Pato as the top young Brazilian player of the moment.
Under-20 World Cup starlet Pato is a known target for the Rossoneri and his agent has flown into Italy for negotiations this week.
OFFICIAL: Oliveira on loan to Zaragoza
14.7 || webmaster
Football Italia
Milan have officially handed Ricardo Oliveira to Real Zaragoza on a loan deal with an option to make the move permanent.
The club website published the announcement this morning that the Brazilian striker would be returning to La Liga after a disappointing first season in Serie A.
Although he scored on his debut in a 2-1 victory over Lazio, Oliveira only managed three Serie A goals in 26 appearances.
He also scored two in five Coppa Italia games and failed to find the net in all six Champions League encounters.
This is a return to Spain for the forward who was top scorer with Betis Seville in 2004-05, netting 22 goals in 37 appearances.
The move was completed despite reports in the Spanish newspapers this morning that the transfer had collapsed.
‘As’ claimed that his £2m per season wage demands were considered too high and the deal was scrapped, but that proved not to be the case.
This transfer means that bringing a new forward to European Champions Milan becomes even more of a top priority.
His replacement could well be Andriy Shevchenko, who will hold crunch talks with Roman Abramovich next week begging to be released for £15m.
Shevchenko begs for San Siro return
14.7 || webmaster
Football Italia
Andriy Shevchenko is set for crunch talks with Chelsea next week begging to be released for a £15m move to Milan.
Reports in several newspapers, including the ‘Daily Mirror’, ‘Daily Star’ and ‘Sky Italia’ television, suggest Roman Abramovich will meet with the Ukrainian over the next few days.
The Rossoneri have never disguised their desire to bring Sheva back to San Siro just a year after his £30m switch.
President Silvio Berlusconi and Vice-President Adriano Galliani have also repeatedly stated that the player is eager to return to the club where he played for seven years, winning the Scudetto, Champions League, Coppa Italia, European Super Cup and the Ballon d'Or.
Recently Galliani gave a clue as to what was needed to complete the deal. “I spoke to Shevchenko and he knows what he has to do.”
Next week the hitman will hold showdown talks with Chelsea owner Abramovich and beg to be released from his contract for £15m so that he can join Milan.
This would after all be a repeat of what happened last summer, when he was only sold because he personally asked the Rossoneri to be set free, supposedly so that he could learn English to communicate better with his American wife Kristen Pazik and their children.
Napoli transfer guru Pierpaolo Marino was also asked about the Shevchenko situation and commented on Pazik’s role.
“Shevchenko to Milan? There’s no point asking transfer experts, you’d be better off asking his wife.”
Another problem may lie with his former teammates, as it's rumoured many of them would not welcome Sheva with open arms after he abandoned them 12 months ago.
AC Milan turn down Anelka
14.7 || webmaster
Football Italia
Milan have reportedly rejected an approach from Nicolas Anelka, as the Bolton man wanted to join the European Champions.
The Rossoneri are on the look-out for a new striker and have been linked with Ronaldinho, Samuel Eto’o, David Suazo and Andriy Shevchenko.
Italian newspapers claim today that Anelka’s agent approached Milan to offer his services for next season.
However, director general Ariedo Braida pointed out he was not part of their transfer plans and sent the Frenchman packing.
Anelka has also recently been linked with a return to Arsenal following Thierry Henry’s £16m switch to Barcelona.
AC Milan plan Ronaldinho mega-bid!
11.7 || webmaster
Football Italia
Milan chief Silvio Berlusconi is ready to pay Ronaldinho’s £89m release clause to bring him to San Siro, according to reports.
The Rossoneri have been repeatedly paired with the 2005 Golden Ball winner after the European champions stated that they were in pole position to sign the Brazilian if he decides to leave the Nou Camp.
Ronaldinho has been in contract talks with the Blaugrana, but despite reiterating that he was not set to leave the Spanish giants he is once again being linked with a Serie A switch.
Reports suggest that Milan will make a new offer to Barcelona over the next few days, as President Berlusconi is willing to pay the player’s £89m release clause if the Azulgrana refuse his offer.
Spanish newspaper AS also claims that ‘Dinho has already agreed to a five-year contract with the Rossoneri, worth £6m a season plus his entire lucrative image rights.
The Brazilian is currently contracted to Barca until 2010 and talks to extend his deal until 2014 have stalled so far, fuelling Berlusconi’s dream of seeing a Ronaldo, Kaka and Ronaldinho trident next term.
Inzaghi's favourite year
11.7 || webmaster
Football Italia
Pippo Inzaghi looks back at the greatest 12 months of his career, but after the World Cup and Champions League he wants more with Milan.
“In the last year I have lived through something extraordinary,” said the striker. “To win the World Cup and Champions League is the dream of any player from when he first starts kicking a ball.”
Although he only scored one goal in the Germany 2006 tournament – in the only game he played in – SuperPippo was the decider with a brace in the 2-1 Athens victory over Liverpool.
“I still can’t quite believe what happened. This is why I often rewatch the game with Liverpool so I can confirm to myself it was all real.”
He’s not done yet, though, as the ambitious hitman who will turn 34 in August already has his sights set on more silverware.
“We have now created a magical atmosphere at Milan. It’s fairly unique and that is why it’s no coincidence we have played three Champions League Finals in five years.
“I am on holiday, but already thinking ahead to the first game at San Siro. It will be so wonderful. We have to focus on a good start in Serie A and winning the European Super Cup.”
The Rossoneri will take on UEFA Cup winners Sevilla in Monaco on August 31.
That form earned him a recall to the Azzurri squad under Coach Roberto Donadoni and praise for his commitment to the international cause.
“I really care about wearing the Italy jersey and if I am fit then I am more than happy to attend. I have a clear and wonderful rapport with Donadoni, who had already told me of his respect before the Final in Athens.”
He made an impressive comeback in the two Euro 2008 qualifiers against the Faroe Islands and Lithuania.
“I found a compact and united squad,” continued Inzaghi. “I think that the group, friendship, respect and the ability to accept very difficult decisions made by the Coach are the key to successes like the ones we had in Berlin and for Milan in Athens.”
Gourcuff extends at AC Milan
11.7 || webmaster
Football Italia
French prodigy Yoann Gourcuff has signed a new contract with Milan that will keep him at the San Siro until 2012.
The 20-year-old midfielder joined the Diavoli from Ligue 1 side Rennes last summer and has since made 21 appearances, although mostly from the bench.
While there had been suggestions that the Rossoneri would loan Gourcuff to another Serie A side to gain experience, that now appears unlikely after a quiet summer in the market.
Meanwhile, there are again whispers that reserve goalkeeper Marco Storari will join Real Betis on a long-term loan basis.
The ex-Messina custodian has been in talks with the Seville outfit who have seen their interest in Francesco Toldo rebuffed in recent days.
Ronaldo 'key' in Real victory
9.7 || webmaster
Football Italia
Real Madrid President Ramon Calderon has launched a sensational attack on Milan ace Ronaldo. “We won the championship because he left,” he noted.
The Spanish giants sold the Brazilian in January for around £5.5m and sacrificing him has been hailed by Calderon as a significant piece of business.
“How much did the decision to sell him influence Real’s title win? A lot,” Calderon said to Spanish newspaper El Pais.
"It was vital that we recovered the habit of hard work and sacrifice – and Ronaldo didn't collaborate," he continued.
"I've enjoyed watching him, but we had to change the atmosphere in the dressing room and he wasn't helping."
The Madrid masters were four points behind leaders Barcelona in third when the former Golden Ball winner was shown the door.
They ended the campaign on level terms with the Nou Camp giants but lifted the title due to their better head-to-head record.
The transfer did seem to benefit everybody involved, though, as the former Inter star proved to be an inspired Rossoneri capture.
The Milan giants were struggling in mid-table before his arrival and his seven goals in 14 League matches helped them to finish in the top four.
AC Milan on Rossi trail
8.7 || webmaster
Football Italia
European champions Milan are set to make an offer to Manchester United for Italian starlet Giuseppe Rossi.
The youngster has been made available for transfer by the Old Trafford outfit given the likely arrival of Carlos Tevez from West Ham.
Parma have already made a £6m offer for the Under-21 international, but the Italian giants are ready to outbid them.
Stories in the peninsula on Sunday claim that Rossi would be willing to join Milan, even if he does have a bond with Parma after his goals kept them in the top-flight during his loan stint last term.
Milan are expected to make a formal financial proposal once Vice-President Adriano Galliani holds transfer status talks with owner Silvio Berlusconi on Tuesday.
The Rossoneri are looking for new striking options, especially as Ricardo Oliveira is on the verge of joining Real Zaragoza on loan.
His departure will leave boss Carlo Ancelotti with just three options in the shape of Ronaldo, Alberto Gilardino and veteran Pippo Inzaghi.
Juventus, at the request of former Parma boss Claudio Ranieri, and Porto are also understood to be pondering a Rossi bid.
Meanwhile, Galliani has rejected claims in Spain that Kaka’s new contract – which they are working on – will include a rescission clause in it.
“These things don’t exist in Italian football,” noted the official. “This rumour has nothing to do with reality.”
Milan are keen to tie down the Brazilian to a fresh deal in a bid to keep him from wanting a Real Madrid transfer.
Oliveira set for Zaragoza
8.7 || webmaster
Football Italia
Milan flop Ricardo Oliveira will reportedly leave the 2007 Champions League winners on Monday to join Real Zaragoza.
Stories in Spain this afternoon are suggesting that the striker will move back to La Liga on a loan agreement.
The Rossoneri will net £1.4m as part of the deal which will also see Zaragoza handed the option to sign the player permanently for a further £7.1m next year.
The 27-year-old has had a disastrous spell in Italian football since his £15m arrival from Real Betis last August.
Although hampered by the fact that his sister was kidnapped for ransom in his homeland before later being released, Oliveira has failed to settle.
Despite finding the net an impressive 27 times in 46 games at the Estadio Manuel Ruiz de Lopera, the No 7 has hit the target on just three occasions for Milan.
Turkish giants Fenerbahce and Spain’s Villarreal were also interested in netting the South American forward.
Emerson staying at Real
8.7 || webmaster
Football Italia
Real Madrid midfielder Emerson will not return to Italy’s Serie A this summer, his agent has confirmed.
The South American was expected to be heading back to the peninsula after a problematic year in Spain, but that is seemingly not the case.
“I spent three days in Madrid recently and I went for a coffee with [Real sporting director Predrag] Mijatovic,” agent Gilmar Veloz noted.
“During that meeting we did not speak at all about the future of my client.
“Emerson still has two years left to run on his contract and therefore there is no need to even discuss him.
“Emerson has an agreement with Real Madrid and he is not talking to any other clubs about a transfer.”
Veloz’s statement is a little surprising given that it comes just days after Real President Ramon Calderon seemingly pushed him out of the capital.
"It looks like Emerson and Antonio Cassano won't continue at the club," Calderon noted earlier this week.
It was understood that Milan, at the specific request of boss Carlo Ancelotti, wanted to sign Emerson this summer.
The 31-year-old, born in Pelotas, initially moved to Serie A in 2000 after he left Bayer Leverkusen for Roma.
He then followed boss Fabio Capello to Juventus in 2004 before doing the same last summer in the aftermath of Calciopoli.
Real concede Kaka defeat
7.7 || webmaster
Football Italia
Real Madrid President Ramon Calderon has admitted that the Merengues cannot buy Milan’s Brazilian star Kaka.
Los Blancos had repeatedly insisted that the international was their main target, although the Rossoneri slammed all suggestions that the 25-year-old could leave the San Siro.
Vice-President Adriano Galliani had stated on Thursday that he wanted all their fans to know that the club would never sell Kaka, a promise also made by President Silvio Berlusconi.
“Kaka? I think a move is very unlikely,” Calderon admitted when talking to Euronews, according to Spanish newspaper AS.
“At this time there is no chance of seeing him here. Milan have said that they do not intend to sell him, therefore we cannot buy him,” added the Spanish chief.
“In any case, if Kaka ever lets us know that he wants to leave, we will be happy to make an offer. However, the Rossoneri don’t want to let him go and this makes things more difficult.”
Calderon also commented on Fabio Capello’s departure, as the Coach was fired despite having led Real Madrid to win their first Liga title in four years.
“We won the championship and we will always be grateful to Capello for his excellent job. However, we always want to do better and we needed a change, that is why we took this decision,” he concluded.
Galliani reassures AC Milan fans
5.7 || webmaster
Football Italia
Vice-President Adriano Galliani was eager to reassure Milan season ticket holders that Kaka will not be leaving the club.
The Brazilian is still being linked with Real Madrid, and reports in Spain suggest that the Merengues are ready to take advantage of the player’s alleged desire to move to the Bernabeu.
“I want all our fans to know that we will not let Kaka leave,” said Galliani after the club announced that 30,000 season tickets for the next campaign had already been sold.
“This is a promise I want to make, also on behalf of President Silvio Berlusconi. Kaka is not for sale, at any price. I want to thank all our fans, one by one, and reassure them that the player won’t move.”
Ronaldo has also declared that his teammate and fellow countryman has no intention of leaving the San Siro.
“Ricky doesn’t need any advice, he knows this is the greatest club in the world and that Milan have given him everything,” the No 99 told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
“I had dinner with him in New York. We didn’t go into detail about the Real Madrid offers, but he told me that he will be loyal to Milan.
“He is serene and so am I – honestly, I really don’t think he will change his mind,” concluded the 1997 and 2002 Golden Ball winner.
Shevchenko's return hopes fade
5.7 || webmaster
Football Italia
Milan’s hunt for a strike partner to Ronaldo continues as Andriy Shevchenko’s agent has ruled out a move to the San Siro.
The Rossoneri had expressed a desire to lure the Ukrainian hitman back to Milan, but despite failing to find his feet in England, a return seems out of the question.
“Andriy was disappointed with his first season, but he is determined to help bring the club success next term,” Stephen Curnow told the Daily Star. “It has never been his desire or on the agenda to move away from Chelsea.”
While Milan continue to track Brazilian youngster Alexandre Pato and have also been linked with Samuel Eto’o, it is looking increasingly likely that the Diavoli will stick with Alberto Gilardino.
Despite failing to set the Giuseppe Meazza alight, the ex-Parma front man is relishing the start of a new campaign.
“I’m feeling good and I plan to do some work before pre-season training starts so I’m at my best when I arrive at Milanello,” he told the Milan website in an interview to mark his 25th birthday.
“In August we have the European Super Cup in Monte Carlo and it’s very important to get off on the right foot.
"Then we need to find something extra in December for the World Club Championship in Japan – it would be great to lift that trophy.”
Ancelotti demands Pato push
5.7 || webmaster
Football Italia
Milan boss Carlo Ancelotti has reaffirmed his desire to bring Brazilian starlet Alexandre Pato to the San Siro.
Ancelotti has been in Canada watching Pato play for Brazil’s Under-20 side where he earned his hype with a brace against South Korea.
“The kid really is very good. He’s young, but you can see that he has the ability to become a real phenomenon,” the ex-Juventus tactician said.
Copa Libertadores winners Internacional are reportedly keen to sell the man nicknamed ‘The Duck’ and have set a rescission clause on his contract at around £10m.
However, any transfer attempt will be made difficult by FIFA’s rule that prevents international transfers of players under 18. Pato may have to wait until his birthday on September 2 to make the move.
The other headache at Via Turati is the number of other sides looking to sign the gifted youngster. These clubs reportedly include Inter and Chelsea.
Pato’s agent Gilmar Veloz has confirmed that Inter, Milan, Chelsea and Real Madrid have all made offers.
Although Chelsea are believed to have bid the highest at around £10m, Veloz insists nothing is decided.
“We are looking at the options and we’ll sit down with Internacional and after that we’ll know about his future,” he stated.
Ancelotti’s hopes of winning the race for his signature will be boosted by Pato’s statement that he would love to play alongside Ronaldo and Kaka.
Milan also have the reassurance that it is notoriously hard to get a work permit to join an English side.
“Anderson got a permit to play for Manchester United because he’s known as a player of outstanding quality – I don’t know if Pato will be treated the same way,” Veloz concluded.
Oliveira heads for exit
5.7 || webmaster
Football Italia
Brazilian striker Ricardo Oliveira is preparing to quit Milan with reports suggesting that Spain is the likely destination.
The 27-year-old has failed to settle at the San Siro since arriving from Real Betis for nearly £15m last August and is facing a season warming the bench if the Rossoneri make their expected swoop for a high-profile striker.
Despite finding the net an impressive 27 times in 46 games at the Estadio Manuel Ruiz de Lopera, the No 7 has hit the target on just three occasions for Milan.
Having snubbed Fenerbahce, rumours suggest that Villarreal and Real Zaragoza have reported an interest in luring Oliveira, but there have been no official talks as yet.
While a big name is likely to arrive in the near future, the Diavoli are also being linked with Lecce’s Azzurrini marksman Graziano Pelle'.
The Calabrian did his cause no harm last term with a 10-goal haul at Cesena and is seen as one of the peninsula’s brightest young talents.
Adriano fans Rossoneri flames
4.7 || webmaster
Football Italia
Inter’s enigmatic Brazilian hitman Adriano has intensified speculation about his future by admitting he would like to play for rivals Milan.
Recently, Milan President Silvio Berlusconi surprisingly stated his desire to see L’Imperatore as a Rossonero and now it appears that the troubled marksman may feel the same way.
“It’s difficult to leave a club like this. I want to have a good season with Inter and satisfy the fans,” he told Brazilian website Globoesporte.
“However, I would like to play for Milan or Real Madrid, but that’s nothing concrete.”
Adriano had a tough 2006-07 campaign and recieved more Press attention for his indiscretions off the pitch than his performances.
Given his personal differences with Coach Roberto Mancini and the arrival of Honduran striker David Suazo, many felt the 25-year-old may take the chance to move on to pastures new.
Galliani reiterates Kaka stance
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Football Italia
Milan Vice-President Adriano Galliani has once again insisted that Real Madrid target Kaka will not leave the Rossoneri this summer.
The Brazilian is the main objective for the Spanish champions, who have repeatedly stated that they would try to secure the player’s capture despite the Rossoneri insisting otherwise.
“I have asked sporting director Predrag Mijatovic to drop this business about Kaka,” said Galliani. “I have an excellent relationship with him and I told him enough is enough – obviously in a polite way.
“Kaka will stay in Milan. He has a contract and I believe he is happy here. This situation is annoying, but it proves that we have the best player in the world.”
Galliani also dismissed the latest reports coming from Spanish newspaper AS, according to which Kaka himself asked President Silvio Berlusconi to consider the Merengues’ offer.
“It is like the photo they published,” he insisted. “They are cunning, but they also need to know that Berlusconi and I will never agree to let the player leave.
“I have already contacted Kaka’s father and agent – when he returns from his holidays we will discuss a contract extension.”
The former Lega Calcio chief also confirmed that striker Ricardo Oliveira is set to leave the Rossoneri after his disappointing season following last year’s move from Real Betis.
“Oliveira will probably leave Milan, we have received important offers from two or three Spanish outfits. A transfer might be finalised tomorrow,” concluded Galliani.
Galliani: Kaka won't leave
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Football Italia
Milan Vice-President Adriano Galliani has told Real Madrid that they don’t have any chance of signing Kaka.
The South American has often been paired with the Spanish giants over the past year and President Ramon Calderon stated that he was not giving up on his dream of seeing the star at the Santiago Bernabeu.
“I want to guarantee to Real Madrid chief Ramon Calderon that Kaka will be in Milanello on July 23 as per schedule, to start pre-season training with his teammates,” said Galliani.
“I also want him to know that on August 31 he will play the European Super Cup Final in Monaco against Sevilla as a European champion and he will take part in the World Club Championship in Japan in December as well.”
The attacking midfielder has been a primary transfer objective for the Spaniards since last summer when Milan reported Real Madrid to FIFA over their repeated courtship of the 25-year-old.
The latest reports in Spain suggest that Kaka was tempted by the idea of moving to Spain and even asked President Silvio Berlusconi to consider the Merengues’ proposal.
The Liga champions are allegedly ready to offer £57m, although Calderon denied that the club would invest such a large amount of money.
“We will not give up although we are aware that Milan will not make our life simple,” he told Marca last week.
“We would be willing to spend a reasonable amount of money, but £57m seems a bit too much.”
Eto'o commits to Barca
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Football Italia
Milan target Samuel Eto’o has stated that he will not leave Barcelona despite the rumours linking him with a summer move.
The Rossoneri are keen on netting the Cameroon international and Thierry Henry’s arrival at the Nou Camp has fuelled speculation that the Blaugrana might consider letting the hitman leave.
“Milan President Silvio Berlusconi favours the technical aspects and wants to sign Ronaldinho, whereas Coach Carlo Ancelotti would like to sign me,” Eto’o told Spanish newspaper Marca.
“But you can tell Berlusconi from me, and I think I can also speak on behalf of Ronaldinho, that neither of us are leaving Barcelona,” added the striker.
Eto’o declared that he is pleased to welcome Henry to the team, as he believes his arrival will make the Catalan side even stronger, although no games will be taken for granted.
“I have told Titi that he has joined a great club, but that we are going to be under immense pressure because we cannot afford to lose any matches,” he said.
“It is like that because we have to be the best, but football is not an exact science. We have to show respect for all our opponents,” concluded Eto’o.
Galliani rejects Pato price
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Football Italia
Milan Vice-President Adriano Galliani has poured cold water on recent speculation that the Rossoneri will move for Brazilian starlet Alexandre Pato.
The 17-year-old is currently at the Under-20 World Cup in Canada where Rossoneri boss Carlo Ancelotti is amongst representatives from several top European clubs keeping an eye on the promising striker.
However, Pato is currently under contract with Copa Libertadores holders Internacional until 2009 and the Porto Alegre outfit have reportedly valued him at around £10m – a fee Galliani is unwilling to pay.
“Ancelotti tells me that Pato is a very talented youngster, but he is young and I believe that you can’t spend that much on a player when it’s not certain he will become the new Kaka,” Galliani insisted.
Galliani’s comments will come as a disappointment to Pato after he told La Gazzetta dello Sport that he would relish the chance to join his idols at Milan.
“To play alongside Ronaldo would be the best. I often play as Milan on the Playstation and there are so many Brazilians there,” he enthused.
While Pato’s first outing in Canada ended in a disappointing defeat against Poland, Palermo’s Edison Cavani impressed for Uruguay against Spain.
The ex-Danubio marksman opened the scoring in the 2-2 draw and made a strong case for a starting place in the Rosanero side in the coming season.
AC Milan: Sheva can quit Chelsea
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Football Italia
Milan are waiting for Andriy Shevchenko to demand a transfer from Chelsea. “He knows what to do,” said Adriano Galliani.
“I speak to Sheva often. He knows what he has to do,” the Vice-President told ‘Il Giornale’ newspaper.
Patron Silvio Berlusconi and Coach Carlo Ancelotti have also publicly stated that the Ukrainian is more than welcome to return to the San Siro just 12 months after his £30m move.
It is reported that Chelsea have rejected a loan deal and that Milan consider £15m to be too much to buy back the Balon d’Or winner.
Other candidates for the club include Antonio Cassano of Real Madrid and Inter’s unsettled hitman Adriano.
“Is Cassano a real target or a bluff? You decide,” added Galliani. “We have signed four players from Inter. Andrea Pirlo and Clarence Seedorf are still first team players, Dario Simic and Christian Brocchi just behind, while the ex-Rossoneri we sent to Appiano Gentile are long gone.
“After these precedents, I doubt Massimo Moratti would hand us his Press Officer, let alone Adriano!”
Milan had said they would bring back Massimo Donati, but instead sold him to Celtic for £3m, so will there be a major midfield acquisition?
“We will sign one player, certainly. We think that the entire squad is covered and too much competition would only create problems.
“For example, look at Emerson. Who would he push out of the side? I doubt Gennaro Gattuso and Pirlo, perhaps Massimo Ambrosini or Seedorf, certainly Yoann Gourcuff, who would be sent to the stands. We prefer to defend Gourcuff.”
Some sections of the media consider this pared down transfer campaign to be a sign of weakness for the European Champions.
“It is the Press who cannot free themselves of these silly clichés even after 20 years of great success. The fans understand how we operate and responded with 27,000 season ticket sales.
“Our victories and ability to climb back up after a fall are all thanks to the rapport between the Coach, the club and the players. We have an airbag compared to other sides and that is created by our consistency.”
This includes keeping hold of Kaka, who has once again been linked with Real Madrid in Spanish newspaper ‘As.’
Today’s edition insists that the Brazilian held a meeting with President Berlusconi to demand a transfer, having “won everything with the Milan jersey.”
As the Rossoneri have already released a couple of statements over the summer slamming ‘As’ for its continued “harassment” of Kaka, this is bound to create further tension.
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