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Adriano Galliani has given more clues to Milan’s Mister X, ruling out Cesc Fabregas. “It won’t be a player already at the top of his game.”
There are reports in England this weekend that the Rossoneri are renewing their interest in Arsenal star Fabregas, who is expected to join Barcelona.
“Mister X will not be a player already at the top of his game. We’ll just have to wait and see what happens,” said the Milan Vice-President.
“We already have a very competitive squad and can happily start the season as we are now. If there are some opportunities, then we’ll have a look at them.
“When I read certain names associated with us, I say it’s impossible. We do not have these financial sources right now, as because of various issues, we cannot compete with the English and Spanish sides on the market.
“Unfortunately I predicted we’d fall behind Germany in the UEFA rankings and I was proved right.
“Don’t forget Milan earn €73m from pay-per-view television rights alone, while Barcelona earn €153m.”
1990 Intercontinental Cup AC Milan goalkeeper dies 31.7 ||webmaster
‘Grande Milan’ goalkeeper Andrea Pazzagli has died suddenly at the age of 51. He was in goal for the 1990 Intercontinental Cup.
Pazzagli played in Arrigo Sacchi’s legendary side from 1989 to 1991, winning the European Cup, Italian Super Cup, two European Super Cups and two Intercontinental Cups.
He wore the gloves during the Intercontinental Cup victory over Olimpia Asuncion in Tokyo on December 9, 1990.
Recently Pazzagli had been working as a goalkeeping coach and commentator on RAI Sport.
Galliani: 'Cassano must let us know' 30.7 ||webmaster
Milan chief Adriano Galliani gave an overview of Javier Pastore, Kaka and Mister X. “Unless he requests a transfer, Antonio Cassano is not for sale.”
The Vice-President admits he was in negotiations with Palermo for Pastore, but could not beat the €43m fee agreed with Paris Saint-Germain.
“We were tracking Pastore even before he came to Palermo and considered him an alternative to Kaka,” Galliani told Sky Sport Italia.
“He has become too expensive now. Both he and Alexis Sanchez went abroad because it’s impossible for Italian clubs to pay €45-50m for a player. If the new law on stadiums owned by clubs is not passed, then we cannot bring in the funds. That is the only big problem in Italian football.”
Milan are chasing a mystery man, known only as Mister X, during this transfer session.
“We’ll see what happens, as we already have a competitive squad, so we’ll take an opportunity if it presents itself.
“Is it Kaka? That is an impossible move, so we cannot talk about it in positive terms.”
Cassano has been linked with a transfer to gain more playing time at Fiorentina, Palermo or even Genoa.
“Cassano is absolutely not for sale. If he doesn’t request a transfer, then he is thoroughly confirmed within the squad.
“Clearly it could be a problem for him that in the lead-up to Euro 2012 he needs to play regularly, but his agent has not asked us to release him. If Cassano wants to leave, then he has to tell us that.”
AC Milan hatch new Balotelli plan 30.7 ||webmaster
Milan are renewing their interest in Mario Balotelli, hoping Manchester City will release him on loan with an option to buy for €15m.
SuperMario is finding life increasingly difficult at Eastlands after Roberto Mancini berated him for attempting an audacious backheel flick during a recent friendly.
The arrival of Sergio Aguero from Atletico Madrid also limits his playing time, so Italian media report he could be heading back to Serie A.
According to Tuttosport, Milan will only step forward if Manchester City make it clear they no longer require his services, as they do want to keep the negotiations amicable.
City paid €22m plus performance-related bonuses to Inter for Balotelli last year, but his price-tag has probably dropped to €15m.
The Rossoneri would prefer the so-called Zlatan Ibrahimovic method of transfer, which is a loan with mandatory option to buy at the end of the season.
This sum would then be paid off over a three-year period.
Balotelli has said numerous times he’d like to join Milan, as they are the club he supported since childhood, even though he played for their arch rivals Inter.
AC Milan: Montolivo or Thiago Motta? 30.7 ||webmaster
Milan continue to pursue Fiorentina’s Riccardo Montolivo, but an alternative is Inter and Italy midfielder Thiago Motta.
The Rossoneri have confirmed they are looking for a reinforcement in that area of the pitch and Montolivo is the primary candidate.
His contract expires in June 2012 and he has repeatedly turned down a renewal, so the Viola are trying to find him a new club rather than lose the former captain on a free transfer.
It’s believed Milan have offered cash plus co-ownership of Alberto Paloschi and Urby Emanuelson, but Fiorentina want only €12m cash.
However, if Milan do find difficulties reaching Montolivo, then today’s newspapers in Italy suggest there is a valid alternative.
Tuttosport suggests Thiago Motta could cross the San Siro divide from rivals Inter.
He was put on the market some time ago, as it’s reported he has unresolved issues with Coach Gian Piero Gasperini from their time together at Genoa.
Thiago Motta had already been linked to Milan before he joined Inter two years ago. The Brazilian has an Italian passport and plays his international football for the Azzurri.
Milan will be without Mathieu Flamini, Philippe Mexes, Pippo Inzaghi or the mysteriously injured Stephan El Shaarawy for the Italian Super Cup.
The Rossoneri fly out to Beijing for the clash with Inter on August 6 and El Shaarawy was hoping to make his official debut.
“He had only one training session at Milanello and then had to stop,” explained Coach Massimiliano Allegri.
“Unfortunately, he won’t be coming to Beijing. Flamini won’t be there either, which is a shame, as he was one of the players in best shape.
“We have to calmly evaluate Inzaghi’s situation, while Mexes is certainly out. We’ll have the defender back at the end of September.”
The others have long-term injury issues, while Flamini picked up a muscular problem last week.
El Shaarawy was one of the big signings of the summer from Genoa and much was expected of ‘The Little Pharaoh,’ but he is yet to play in the Rossoneri jersey.
The Corriere dello Sport suggests the teenager is suffering from a knee inflammation, but information is scarce.
Milan transfer official Ariedo Braida has played down reports that the club’s mystery Mr X signing will be Kaka.
“We all love Kaka,” Braida noted. “However, I think it is improbable that he could return to this club.”
The Brazilian spent six years at San Siro before his big money move to Real Madrid in the summer of 2009.
“You’ve spent all summer talking about Mr X,” the Milan director continued. “However, I think Milan are already very competitive, also in terms of the Champions League.
“In the past there has often been suspense about our signings right up until the transfer window closes.
“We’re hopeful that we can do the same again.”
Milan were heavily criticised for their signings last summer before grabbing Robinho and Zlatan Ibrahimovic in the last week of the window.
AC Milan won't make Fabregas move 28.7 ||webmaster
Milan have ruled out bids for Cesc Fabregas, Bastian Schweinsteiger and Kaka. But the Riccardo Montolivo door is open.
The Rossoneri have claimed that they will sign a new midfielder before the window closes, but it won’t be Fabregas of Arsenal, Bayern’s Schweinsteiger or former San Siro favourite Kaka of Real Madrid.
“I understand that Fabregas is an Arsenal player and not a Barcelona one,” stated Rossoneri Vice-President Adriano Galliani.
“There will be no derby between Barcelona and us for him. His transfer fee is hyperbolic and he’s not one of our objectives.
“Schweinsteiger is a flag bearer and he won’t be coming to Milan. As for Kaka, that would be a difficult operation with financial complications.”
Galliani refused to rule out a move for Montolivo though, the Italian international who will be sold by Fiorentina after turning down a new deal.
“We’ve not pushed for Montolivo, but then anything is possible in the market. It’s one of a lot of operations that are still alive.
“Enough now though with the Mr X, if he arrives then it will be at the end of the window.”
VIDEO: Internacional 2:2 (2:0) AC Milan 28.7 ||webmaster
Milan failed to convert any of their penalties in the shoot-out after a 2-2 draw with Internacional in the Audi Cup.
Having lost to Bayern Munich on penalties last night, drawing 1-1 after 90 minutes, Massimiliano Allegri’s men faced Brazil’s Internacional for third place in the German tournament.
The Rossoneri took a very early lead against Bayern Munich with Ibrahimovic and repeated the trick in this game.
Within the opening three minutes, a corner had been well played down the right with Robinho pulling back for a cheeky Ibrahimovic backheel flick.
Internacional are already 12 games into the Brazilian season and found an equaliser on the counter-attack with Leandro Damião, who finished off from five yards after Gilberto sprinted past Mario Yepes down the right.
Robinho, João Paulo and Alexandre Pato threatened. Pato should’ve scored against his former club straight after the break, as Ibra dispossessed a defender at the by-line and Robinho rolled across, but The Duck smacked his angled drive against the post.
Pato made up for it on the hour mark, as a Robinho-Ibrahimovic give-and-go sent the Brazilian clear to stroke home.
It should’ve been 3-1 moments later with another well-worked move, but Renan did well to deny Pato from point-blank range.
However, Internacional equalised 10 minutes from time with substitute Andres D’Alessandro. João Paulo’s shot took a ricochet off Thiago Silva to accidentally set up D’Alessandro with only Flavio Roma to beat.
Youth team player Valoti could’ve won it at the death from an Antonio Cassano nutmeg assist, but fired right at the goalkeeper at the near post.
Once again, it went to penalties. Against Bayern it was Milan who converted four before Alberto Paloschi missed the decider. This time, all four of the Rossoneri players failed to convert with Valoti, Cassano and Pato's efforts saved, while Massimo Oddo hit the post.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic netted in Milan’s 1-1 draw with Bayern Munich for the Audi Cup, but the Germans won on penalties.
The Rossoneri went into the semi-final of the Audi Cup in Munich and the winners would face Barcelona on Wednesday. The Spaniards had beaten Brazil’s Internacional on penalties earlier today, 2-2 after 90 minutes.
Former Bayern midfielder Mark Van Bommel was presented with gifts before kick-off to mark his return to the Allianz Arena.
Bayern had a strong start and are already prepared for the Bundesliga kick-off in within two weeks, but it was Milan who went in front with their first chance.
It was a ball over the top to release Ibrahimovic and the Swede placed an angled drive across Manuel Neuer. Ibra was sporting a ponytail and goatee beard after the summer break.
Ibra threaded through for Antonio Cassano soon after, but the shot was straight at the on-rushing goalkeeper. Former Genoa man Rafinha flashed a strike across the face of goal to skim the back post.
Mario Gomez dribbled past both Daniele Bonera and Taye Taiwo only to blast over the bar. Bayern did equalise on 34 minutes when Toni Kroos smacked a precise daisy-cutter into the near bottom corner from the D.
Gennaro Gattuso charged down a Thomas Muller header at the back post and moments later Abbiati tipped a Rafinha snapshot on to the crossbar. The goalkeeper blocked a Robben effort after the break and flapped a Philip Lahm dipping strike out from under the bar.
Robben seemed to hurt his foot and limped off, throwing his boot in anger as he got to the touchline. Abbiati was again busy, having to rush off his line to smother at the feet of Gomez following a defensive error.
Both teams began to tire towards the end despite the numerous substitutions, so it ended 1-1 after 90 minutes and went straight to penalties.
There was a 100 per cent record from the spot until the final kick, when Alberto Paloschi ballooned over the bar. Bastian Schweinsteiger kept his cool to convert the decider, as Bayern Munich won 5-3 on penalties.
Bayern will face Barcelona in the Audi Cup Final on Wednesday evening, while Milan take on Internacional for third place.
Massimiliano Allegri faces Bayern Munich in tonight’s Audi Cup and hopes Milan can return “for the Champions League Final.”
The Rossoneri take to the field at 19.45 UK time after Barcelona play Porto Alegre in the other tournament match.
“We hope to return to Munich for the Champions League Final,” said the Coach of that May 19, 2012 appointment.
“Tonight’s game is an important test ahead of the Italian Super Cup against Inter, but we have to focus on one thing at a time.
“I’m satisfied with how things are going. Pre-season training is progressing well without any particular problems.”
Milan travel to Beijing for the Super Cup clash on August 6.
Antonio Cassano is expected to start against Bayern Munich this evening alongside Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
Philippe Mexes and Stephan El Shaarawy have been left behind due to fitness worries, but Mario Yepes, Alexandre Pato and Robinho are back from international duty in the Copa America.
Bayern begin their Bundesliga games within the next two weeks, but are without Franck Ribery thanks to an ankle injury.
Marek Hamsik has dismissed suggestions of an imminent future at Milan. “I never thought about leaving Napoli,” he said.
The Slovakian is back in pre-season training after a summer break which saw him linked with a switch to San Siro.
“Over the last two months I was at home in Slovakia and didn’t even have the internet at my disposal,” he told La Gazzetta dello Sport. “I stayed away from everything.
“I decided to take a break by isolating myself. I only thought about my partner Martina and my son Christian.”
While the former Brescia midfielder spent time with his family, rumours started to circulate that a transfer to Milan was on – especially after agent Mino Raiola entered the scene.
“Juray Venglos is still my representative, Raiola just follows me in Italy,” the attacking midfielder explained.
“Milan? I never let the reality of Napoli out of my sights. I’m focused on Napoli and the new season ahead. I don’t want to think about my long-term future.
“The future doesn’t interest me right now, it wouldn’t be right with regards to President Aurelio De Laurentiis who believed in me from the start.
“My heart just can’t wait to hear the Champions League anthem at the Stadio San Paolo. I love Napoli, I love the Neapolitans, I love the city. I never thought about leaving.”
Taiwo banned for Italian Super Cup 25.7 ||webmaster
Gennaro Gattuso is convinced Milan should bring back Ricky Kaka. “He’d be reborn here! Leonardo treated me like a child.”
The midfielder believes mysterious transfer target Mister X will prove to be a very familiar face.
“I’d like Kaka to be the man, as he’d be reborn here! He has technique, power and stamina. His fitness records still stand here at Milanello,” he told the Corriere dello Sport.
“Jose Mourinho doesn’t want him at Real Madrid anymore, so in my view he could work out an agreement with Milan over his wages.”
There are reports in Spain today that Kaka is ready to leave Madrid after a spell of injuries, though he has been linked with Paris Saint-Germain.
Leonardo is now the director general at PSG, but famously had a bust-up with Gattuso while he was Coach of Milan.
“I would’ve preferred if Leonardo had just told me he wasn’t going to consider my contribution. Instead he treated me like a child from the youth academy.
“Milan gave me a great deal, but I too have given much to this club. I turned down offers to leave because money isn’t everything in life. Milanello is my home.”
Some veterans have walked away, as Andrea Pirlo opted to join Juventus after 10 years at San Siro.
“Pirlo’s absence will be felt, as Andrea is a fantastic player. You just can’t find players of his quality nowadays.
“Cesc Fabregas? He could be a good potential signing, thanks to his quality and experience. If Milan had waited until now to announce Philippe Mexes and Taye Taiwo, then people would be saying what a great transfer campaign Milan have had.”
AC Milan make first step for Montolivo 23.7 ||webmaster
Milan have reportedly made the first step in asking Fiorentina for Riccardo Montolivo, offering €5.5m and half of Alberto Paloschi.
The midfielder is out of contract next summer and has repeatedly turned down a contract extension, so he has been stripped of the captaincy.
It’s widely believed he is the Mister X that Milan Vice-President Adriano Galliani hinted at, as he’d fill that left midfield role that is currently empty.
According to today’s reports, the Rossoneri have sent a proposal to Fiorentina for €5.5m plus co-ownership of Italy Under-21 international striker Paloschi.
That would take the total value to €8m, but the Viola turned down this offer, as they have set the price-tag at €10m.
Meanwhile, newspapers are still trying to guess who Mister X could be on the transfer market.
Other options include Arsenal’s Cesc Fabregas, Javier Pastore of Palermo, Santos trequartista Ganso and Napoli’s Marek Hamsik.
The Corriere dello Sport even suggested Daniele De Rossi as a possible alternative considering his contract with Roma expires in June 2012.
Manchester City look to AC Milan youngster 23.7 ||webmaster
Clarence Seedorf won’t disguise Milan’s main ambition this season. “We want the Champions League.”
The Dutchman has lifted the trophy with Ajax, Real Madrid and Milan, but aims to be up on that podium again next May.
“Milan’s objective is the Champions League and we’ve got to have more faith in our capabilities,” said the midfielder who won the Scudetto last term.
“We may not be Barcelona in terms of individuals, but we have enough talent to aim high. We’ve got to combine strong self-confidence with keeping our feet on the ground.”
Seedorf had strongly considered walking away from San Siro this summer, but opted to remain for another year instead.
“I always want at least 10 goals per season, but playing in a deeper position that is difficult. The results of the team are always more important than those of the individual.
“We have a lot of quality, but above all a strong team ethic and we proved that last term during difficult moments. I’m glad if more quality players arrive, as that’ll make us even more competitive.”
Antonio Cassano’s first Coach, Eugenio Fascetti, has urged him to “leave Milan and join Fiorentina to stay in the Nazionale.”
There have been reports the talent is considering a summer loan switch to Tuscany so that he can play regularly in the lead-up to Euro 2012.
“I tell him to leave Milan and join Fiorentina,” ex-Bari boss Fascetti told Il Giornale newspaper.
“It’s the only way he can stay in the Nazionale. Cesare Prandelli already told him that either he is a regular starter or he can forget the Azzurri jersey.
“In his shoes, I already would’ve made my decision. I read some journalists close to the Rossoneri camp think Cassano is sixth in the pecking order of strikers, even behind Alberto Paloschi. Is that acceptable? No, it isn’t.
“In Florence he’d have the chance to reunite with Alberto Gilardino, as they formed a great pair for the Under-21 side. They complete each other and seem really made to act as a partnership.
“Cassano could give Gila the service he needs to come back to scoring 20 goals. With Stevan Jovetic as well, it’d be a fairytale trident.”
Max Allegri saw Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Antonio Cassano “have fun together” during Milan’s 12-0 friendly outing.
The Rossoneri thrashed Solbiatese with Ibra netting a brace and forcing an own goal, while Cassano was among those on target.
Mathieu Flamini, Alberto Paloschi, Gianluca Zambrotta, Urby Emanuelson and the recovering Pippo Inzaghi also hit the back of the net.
“I liked the attitude the team had going on to the pitch, as we tried to score as many goals as possible and pushed from the start,” said Coach Allegri.
“These friendlies are important to help us practice the movements between all areas of the squad. Now the test against Bayern Munich will enable us to prepare for the Italian Super Cup.”
Milan play Bayern for the Audi Cup on July 26 before travelling to Beijing for the Italian Super Cup clash with Inter.
“Ibra and Cassano really had fun playing together, so the game was more than a mere training exercise,” added Allegri.
However, new signing Taye Taiwo was disappointing and did not seem up to speed with his teammates.
“He still has the fitness work in his legs, so obviously it’ll take a little time for him to settle in at his best.”
Adriano Galliani admits Milan “have found our Mister X,” but patron Silvio Berlusconi will not sell the club.
All summer Galliani has been teasing the media with mentions of their top transfer target, named only as Mister X, who was thought to be Napoli’s Marek Hamsik.
“We have found our Mister X, but that’s not to say he will actually arrive,” Vice-President Galliani told Mediaset Premium.
“At the moment there are no plans to buy or sell players, as we are ultra-competitive in our current form.
“We’ll see if something happens towards the end of the transfer campaign. In any case, we have a precise idea of the player we want.”
More recently, the target is believed to have become want-away Fiorentina midfielder Riccardo Montolivo.
“Meetings with his agent are irrelevant. We are discussing the transfer of a few youth team players. We have not spoken about Riccardo.”
Galliani also took the opportunity to deny reports President Berlusconi was ready to sell the club in order to resolve his financial issues.
“Fininvest, who are the parent company of Milan, have spoken clearly. Berlusconi has the same passion that he always had. He is the soul of Milan and the fans can relax, as he will be for a long time to come.”
Rodney Strasser could agree to join Lecce from Italian champions Milan over the next 24 hours.
The 21-year-old is pondering a move to the southern side in an attempt to play regularly in Serie A this season.
The Rossoneri are ready to loan the Sierra Leone youngster to the Stadio Via Del Mare outfit.
“We are talking to Milan,” Lecce sporting director Carlo Osti admitted recently. “The player is of interest to us. Now we’re waiting for his response.”
Strasser has played five Serie A games for the Rossoneri, scoring one goal in last season’s win at Cagliari.
Milan stopper Alessandro Nesta has dismissed suggestions that this may be his final season in the game.
Nesta signed a new one-year contract at Milanello earlier this summer, a deal that some thought would be his last given that he turned 35 in March.
“It is my intention to retire as late as possible and in a decent manner,” the veteran told Sky Sport Italia.
“Let’s take it one step at a time. We’ve been training for just a week and people are already talking about the future.
“I’ll continue to give everything as I always have. If I no longer had the motivation to play then I would have quit, but I still have a great amount of desire.
“I’m at the Coach’s disposal and I’ll look to give my contribution to the team.”
The former Lazio captain, who admitted that winning the Champions League was his top aim for 2011-12, was also asked to comment on the absence of Andrea Pirlo at Milanello.
“I’m happy that he’s gone to an important team,” added the centre-back. “It’s sad that I no longer see him on a daily basis, but this is football.”
The Italian has left the Rossoneri after a decade to join Italian rivals Juventus.
Fiorentina director Pantaleo Corvino has invited Milan to make an offer for Riccardo Montolivo. “They never asked me for him.”
The captain has repeatedly rejected a contract extension and will be a free agent next summer, so is under pressure to make a decision on his future.
“It is possible Milan are chasing Riccardo, but they have never asked me for him. Clearly I’ve been in the market for years and know how things work,” commented Fiorentina director of sport Corvino.
“We’ll see how it pans out, but the only players at Fiorentina must be those who want to be here.
“I spoke to his agent and realised there is absolutely no chance of re-opening negotiations. We helped him mature and made him the captain, so it’s understandable that the club patrons feel betrayed.”
Meanwhile, the Viola have been linked with a bid for Liverpool’s Alberto Aquilani.
“I don’t name names until the negotiations are concluded.”
Boateng 'thought Ibrahimovic was arrogant' 17.7 ||webmaster
Kevin-Prince Boateng feels right at home with Milan and reveals he was won over by Zlatan Ibrahimovic. “I thought he was an arrogant bastard!”
The Ghanaian was a huge success in his debut Serie A campaign, winning the Scudetto and marking the occasion with a Moonwalk on the San Siro pitch.
“If a year ago someone had told me I’d be playing for Milan, win a title and become an idol for the fans, I’d have asked them what drugs they were on,” he joked in the Gazzetta dello Sport.
“But it all happened and I only realised it on vacation when I had time to reflect. It’s wonderful to be a hero to children. Maybe in the past their parents would’ve thought I did stupid things, am full of tattoos and have too much of a hard man image to set a good example, but instead the people understood me.
“They see me for who I am here, seeing my positive passion, the way I battle for my dreams.”
‘Prince’ was surprised by some of his teammates when arriving at San Siro last summer.
“I had thought Ibrahimovic was an arrogant b*****d, but he’s really nice, kind and funny. As for Pippo Inzaghi, seeing him train at age 39 makes you think everything is possible. I’d throw up if I ran as much as he does.”
Asked if he followed in the footsteps of ex-Milan legend George Weah, Boateng had a more modern approach.
“I was born and raised in Europe, so I only visited Ghana for the first time a few months ago. I feel more a symbol of multi-cultural society than an African figure. I do want to build a football school in Ghana, though.”
Boateng played in several different midfield roles throughout the season and could move again.
“My preferred position is behind the strikers. If a ‘Mister X’ player joins over the summer, then he’s welcome, but we don’t need anyone really. Milan have experienced and young players, those of quality and fighters.
“This squad is fantastic and if we play as a team, then we can achieve any result.”
Stephan El-Shaarawy cannot contain his excitement at becoming a Milan player. “I’ll try to mature, develop and earn my place.”
The Italian Under-21 international impressed last season at Padova in Serie B and was bought from Genoa in a co-ownership deal worth €20m.
“These first few days at Milanello have been very exciting, as I got to know great champions and extraordinary people. The top players were the ones who gave me the best advice, and Gennaro Gattuso said he’d cut my hair with a tackle!
“My objectives for this term are to learn, mature, develop and earn my place. It takes a lot of hard work and I am willing to do that. I prefer to play as a trequartista, although I can also do well as a support striker, which is where Coach Massimiliano Allegri has tested me so far.”
El-Shaarawy is nicknamed ‘The Little Pharaoh’ thanks to his mixed heritage.
“I am very tied to the land of my father, Egypt, but I also feel Italian because I was born and raised in Italy. Let’s say I feel a little Egyptian and a little Italian.
“I am passionate about Milan and as a little boy would go to the stadium to see the games. This has always been the club in my heart.”
He hopes to follow in the footsteps of former Rossoneri hero Kaka, who he considers to be an inspiration.
“Kaka has always been my idol. I’ve often been compared to him for the way I run with the ball at my feet, but the great thing about Kaka is he’s a wonderful person as well as a champion.”
Inter 'only real offer for Casemiro' 16.7 ||webmaster
There are reports Genoa and Milan are clubbing together to snatch Carlos Henrique Casemiro, but an agent insists “the only real offer has come from Inter.”
The San Paolo talent is one of the hottest properties on the market and is thought to be worth €15m.
“He is already well-known and will play in the Under-20 World Cup for Brazil soon,” FIFA agent Sabatino told Radio Sportiva.
“Casemiro combines physicality with power and two good feet. He is a winger, but can also play in central midfield and has an eye for goal.
“I would compare him to Tottenham midfielder Sandro. He can take on various different positions.”
Inter have been tracking Casemiro for some time, but there have been reports that Milan and Genoa will join forces to tempt him away.
“The only real offer has come from Inter so far, especially as their emissaries were in Sao Paolo last week,” continued the transfer expert.
“The rest is just the usual gossip.”
Mexes: 'I rejected Madrid for AC Milan' 15.7 ||webmaster
Milan signing Philippe Mexes thanks Roma for “seven marvellous years” and reveals why he turned down Real Madrid and Manchester United.
The defender was a free agent after his contract with the Giallorossi expired and held his first Press conference with his new side today.
“I keep all the Roma teammates in my heart, as I’ll never forget the city and its fans, who did so much for me. Now I am at Milan and very proud to be part of this club,” he said.
“I had seven marvellous years at Roma and it’s partly thanks to them that I grew as a man and a player to earn this opportunity with Milan.
“It was my choice, as I could’ve joined Real Madrid this summer. In the past I chose Roma ahead of Manchester United. I dreamed of a club like this since childhood and it’s an important shop window, so I can hope to earn a place in the France squad for Euro 2012.”
Mexes could well find himself on the bench at San Siro, with competition from Alessandro Nesta, Thiago Silva and Mario Yepes.
“I am humble and respect everyone. Clearly there is competition, but I’ll do my utmost to help the team and give my contribution.
“Even if there are no more signings this summer, Milan are already favourites for the Scudetto and competitive in the Champions League.
“Everyone has been very welcoming and I’m won over by the humility of great champions. I am just annoyed that I can’t get to know them better on the field, but I’m working like a madman to recover quickly from the knee injury.”
Napoli President Aurelio De Laurentiis has made it clear that he doesn’t plan to sell Marek Hamsik. “I want €100m.”
The Slovakian midfielder is reportedly of interest to Milan, but the San Paolo chief has reiterated that he would have to receive an offer that he couldn’t refuse.
“The indecent proposal would have to be of €100m, otherwise he will be staying here,” the movie mogul noted.
Meanwhile, De Laurentiis has confirmed that Napoli will be taking part in a glamour friendly this summer.
“The news of the day is our game against Barcelona on August 22,” he added. “I thank director general Fassone for sorting that out.
“It will be an honour for us to face them.”
The Azzurri will take on the European champions at the Nou Camp for Barcelona’s annual Gamper Trophy game.
The absence of Andrea Pirlo is already being felt by Italian champions Milan, says Christian Abbiati.
Pirlo left the Rossoneri after a decade this summer when he joined rivals Juventus on a free transfer.
“We already miss Pirlo,” Abbiati stated on Thursday. “He’s a great champion and I wish him all of the very best.
“We played together for many years, also for the Under-21 side, and he’s a great friend. Juventus made a great signing.”
Abbiati played a key role in the club’s Scudetto success last term, but he concedes another Italian championship may be tough.
“It’ll be hard to defend out title as it’s always very difficult to repeat yourselves,” continued the former Torino, Juventus and Atletico Madrid player.
“All of the clubs have strengthened and we’ll all start from the same line. Napoli are the side who have improved the most so far.”
Milan will officially open the season when they take on Inter in the Italian Super Cup on August 6 in Beijing.
“I would have preferred to play the Super Cup game in Milan, a derby between the two teams of the city would have been nice at San Siro.
“We are training now for the Super Cup, that’s the first target. Then the League starts and the Champions League. We’ll have new objectives as we go along.”
Massimiliano Allegri has “absolutely” ruled out reports of Milan exchanging Antonio Cassano for Riccardo Montolivo.
There have been rumours for several weeks that the Rossoneri have a deal in place with Fiorentina to swap players.
“Absolutely not,” said the Coach during today’s Press conference, “even if Montolivo has excellent quality and I believe is one of the best midfielders in Italy.
“I can categorically rule out this move, as there is zero chance. Cassano is staying at Milan.”
Allegri turned his attention towards new signings Taye Taiwo, Stephan El-Shaarawy and Philippe Mexes.
“Taiwo impressed me with a good first training session and now needs time to get to know his teammates. El-Shaarawy has technique, but is also very wide awake for someone so young.”
The Rossoneri begin the defence of their Scudetto and hope to target the Champions League too.
“We cannot allow ourselves the arrogance to think we’re unbeatable or have hit our peak. Don’t forget last season we started with a handicap, as after four games we were five points off Inter, even if we then recovered and stayed top for 28 rounds.”
Zlatan Ibrahimovic ran out of steam towards the end of the season with physical and disciplinary problems.
“Last term he was crucial and devastating until January, when the rest of the team still needed to find its form. He is a generous player and really drags the squad along with him, but it’s only normal he couldn’t keep up that pace.”
Palermo star Javier Pastore has confirmed that he’d like to join one of the Milan clubs this summer.
Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Argentine international confirmed his desire to remain in the Italian championship.
“If possible, I’d like to stay in Italy,” he stated. “I like the climate in Serie A and I wouldn’t want to start from scratch in a new footballing reality.
“I like Milan,” he added. “They have won the Scudetto. And there is also Inter. My agent is talking to four or five clubs.
“Roma? I have spoken about them with my friend Nicolas Burdisso, but I don’t think they are an option for me right now.”
Pastore’s words do seem to contradict those of his agent, who has stated that he’s not been in contact with either of the San Siro outfits.
While the player’s destination remains a mystery, his exit from the Stadio Barbera seems almost certain.
“I think I can safely say that I won’t be playing for Palermo next season,” added the midfielder.
“It won’t be easy to break the umbilical cord. I consider President Maurizio Zamparini to be like a father.
“Palermo have changed my life and I hope to always be a friend to them.”
Palermo want around €50m for the 22-year-old. He cost them €19m two years ago.
Mexes can't wait to start at AC Milan 13.7 ||webmaster
Massimiliano Allegri feels Milan’s squad is “complete,” but again refused to guarantee Antonio Cassano first team football.
“We start the new season in the best possible way, as the club provided me with three new buys plus Alberto Paloschi,” said the Coach as pre-season training kicked off today.
“Last season I changed the team quite a lot due to injuries, as we ended the campaign with Kevin-Prince Boateng as trequartista after Robinho had taken that role.
“We have many versatile figures who allow us to have different options. Right now the squad is complete, I’m happy with the players at my disposal and now we can only focus on doing well.”
However, Allegri again ruled out giving Cassano regular first team football, which could push him into a summer move in the lead-up to Euro 2012.
“No club and no Coach in the world can guarantee a starting spot for a player. Cassano will be important for Milan, just as he was in the six months he played for us so far.
“Last term we found a style of football and a team identity that allowed us to win the Scudetto. Of course we need to improve on dead ball situations and other things.”
Philippe Mexes, Taiye Taiwo, Stephan El-Shaarawy and Paloschi have joined the Rossoneri this summer.
“We start this season with an advantage, as we know the four new players in the side when beginning training,” continued Allegri.
“We have to start with the same motivation and hunger as last year. It’s difficult to say who will be Milan’s main antagonist, but I think Inter are the joint favourites for the Scudetto, followed by Napoli, Juventus and Roma.”
Berlusconi 'won't abandon AC Milan' 12.7 ||webmaster
President Silvio Berlusconi “will stay at the helm and Milan’s transfer policy won’t be affected by the Fininvest financial problems.”
There were fears Berlusconi would abandon the club after his company Fininvest was ordered to pay €560m in damages due to corruption in their 1991 takeover of Mondadori.
Those concerns intensified when Berlusconi did not attend today’s presentation of the Rossoneri squad.
“President Berlusconi is not here because, as Prime Minister, he is in Rome for the funeral of a soldier killed in Afghanistan,” explained Vice-President Adriano Galliani.
“President Berlusconi intends to stay at the helm with enthusiasm, so we want to reassure the fans.
“I saw the banners supporting the President and I can tell you he has no intention of giving up. The Fininvest financial problems will not influence Milan’s transfer policy.
“The side starts the new season with the Scudetto symbol on its shirt, an objective we strongly wanted to achieve.
“We also present our new signings, Taiye Taiwo, Philippe Mexes and Stephan El-Shaarawy. Milan are the champions of Italy and as such cannot fear any opponents. We are here to confirm our success and try to do the best we can in the Champions League.
“We’ll see what opportunities the transfer market has for us, but we have a competitive squad already, considering now Antonio Cassano and Mark Van Bommel can play in the Champions League.”
Berlusconi pulls out of pre-season 12.7 ||webmaster
Javier Pastore has confirmed that he would like to stay in Italy if he leaves Palermo this summer.
Rosanero chief Maurizio Zamparini yesterday stated that four foreign clubs have shown an interest in him, while one Italian side remains in the shadows.
“If I leave Palermo then it will certainly be to join a stronger side,” the Argentine told Sky Sport Italia.
“The President is in contact with my agent, but I don’t really know too much about it,” continued the midfielder.
“I’m calm about the situation and am just concentrating on my national side at this point in time.
“I’ve been playing in Italy for two years and I’m very happy there. I would like to stay on the peninsula.”
Zamparini noted that the mystery Italian club monitoring the player’s situation is either Milan or Inter.
But Pastore has also been linked with a switch to Roma given his relationship with sporting director Walter Sabatini, the man who signed him for Palermo.
“I spoke to Sabatini before I left Italy this summer, he’s a great and a good guy,” the playmaker continued.
Having valued Pastore as highly as €60m last season, Zamparini is now saying that the player can be signed for €45m.
Real Madrid, Malaga, Chelsea and Manchester United are believed to be the clubs watching the 22-year-old.
Gasperini to prove AC Milan wrong 11.7 ||webmaster
Inter boss Gian Piero Gasperini is confident that his new side can challenge for honours next season – despite the doubts of Milan chief Adriano Galliani.
The latter believes that the Nerazzurri won’t be as strong as they were last term when the new campaign kicks off.
“We’ll do all that we can to make sure that he is wrong,” Gasperini stated on Monday afternoon.
“We can immediately be as competitive as the side was in the last campaign, a team that despite injuries still won trophies.”
Gasperini was appointed recently following the departure of Leonardo and there is great debate as to how the Nerazzurri will line up given his 3-4-3 tendencies.
“This team is one that is capable of playing in a number of different systems,” added the ex-Crotone and Genoa tactician.
“We have the players to use four at the back, but we’ll also try with a three. We’ll test out everything.”
Turning to matters further up the field, the tactician was then asked whether he could select a trident of Samuel Eto’o, Giampaolo Pazzini and Diego Milito.
“It depends,” responded Gasperini. “However, all important sides like ours can be fielded in a variety of ways.”
There is one unnamed Italian club who are interested in signing Javier Pastore this summer, Palermo have revealed.
The Argentine international will be sold and President Maurizio Zamparini last week suggested that Real Madrid and Chelsea were in pole position.
However, the Stadio Barbera chief now claims that a Serie A club is monitoring the playmaker’s availability.
“There is a 99 per cent chance that Pastore will be sold,” Zamparini noted. “But there are no new developments.
“Let’s say that we are making progress with four clubs and there is also an Italian side that is in the shadows.”
Zamparini refused to name which Italian outfit were keen, but he seemed to narrow it down to just the Milan sides.
“It’s not Napoli,” continued Zamparini. “Only Milan, Inter and Juventus could be an Italian destination, but Juve have hired Antonio Conte this summer.”
Zampa has previously declared that Juve would not sign the player as Conte doesn’t see how he would fit into his 4-2-4/4-4-2 system in Turin.
The South American is valued at €50m. Malaga and Manchester City are also thought to be interested.
Massimiliano Allegri prepares to defend his Milan title and warns “Inter will be our main rivals again.”
The Coach won the Scudetto on his first attempt, finishing ahead of the Nerazzurri and Napoli.
“I was fortunate because Milan gave me some important players. Without those, it’s difficult to win, no matter how good the Coach,” he told the Gazzetta dello Sport.
“I must thank all the lads for how hard they worked. I think Inter will be our main rivals for the Scudetto again.”
Having lifted the Serie A trophy, Allegri knows he is now under pressure to achieve success in Europe.
“We absolutely have to do better than last season in the Champions League. We went out far too early. Perhaps it was undeserved, but in any case it was too soon.
“Unlike last year, I hope to reach the crucial rounds with a full squad at my disposal.”
Berlusconi fine 'a problem for AC Milan' 10.7 ||webmaster
Adriano Galliani admits patron Silvio Berlusconi’s massive €560m damages bill “is a problem for Milan, but we’re already competitive.”
The President’s company, Fininvest, has been ordered to pay €560m in damages due to a civil trial over corruption in the 1991 take-over of Mondadori.
This will inevitably eat into the money set aside for the transfer kitty, something that Vice-President Galliani fully admits to.
“It is something that hits the owners of Milan very hard, as the club is owned by Fininvest,” he told Sky Sport Italia.
“Berlusconi will be at the Milanello training ground on Tuesday to present the squad. I think it’ll be a good time to talk.
“As for how it affects the future of Milan, this is something President Berlusconi has to consider.
“He loves Milan very much, as this is his ‘baby’, having bought the club from a bankruptcy tribunal in 1986 and brought them to a great deal of success.”
Even if this fine affects the transfer strategy, Galliani is confident the Rossoneri have what they need.
“Milan are absolutely a complete and very competitive squad. We’ll see what happens, but the team is fine as it is.”
AC Milan - Genoa unite for Silvestre? 9.7 ||webmaster
It’s reported Milan and Genoa could combine forces again on the transfer market to bring in Matias Silvestre from Catania.
The two clubs famously banded together to sign Kevin-Prince Boateng from Portsmouth last summer, plus exchanged numerous players in loan and co-ownership deals.
According to the Corriere dello Sport, they will also go into a co-ownership deal to sign defender Silvestre for €8m.
Catania have confirmed the Argentine is on his way out of Sicily this summer to seek a bigger club.
As Milan already have Philippe Mexes coming in on a free transfer from Roma, there is no real room for Silvestre.
Instead, they would leave the 27-year-old at Genoa for one season to gain more experience.
This system would see Silvestre then drafted in to replace Alessandro Nesta when he retires next year.
Serie A clubs have reached an agreement on how to divide up pay-per-view television rights, ending months of bitter rows.
“It was a very successful day’s work,” confessed Lega Serie A President Maurizio Beretta.
“The positions are coming closer together. The work has not yet been finalised by the vote, but talks will continue next week and we will probably hold a vote the week after that.
“There was unanimous agreement on three very important elements.”
The five big clubs – Milan, Inter, Juventus, Napoli and Roma – threatened to break away and refuse to do transfer business with the other Serie A sides.
This was after the smaller clubs voted to change the way their television ratings affected the financial split.
This year there will be €197m in pay-per-view television rights and 40 per cent will be divided evenly between all clubs.
Another 30 per cent is divided according to those sides with the most fans, television viewers and ticket sales.
This was the main problem in negotiations, as there was disagreement on how to calculate which clubs had more of an ‘audience.’
The final 30 per cent is split along the lines of sporting merit, so results over a number of years and the history of the club is worth more than simply last season’s achievements.
“The disagreements over calculating the audience had effectively blocked all negotiations,” continued Beretta.
“Now the positions are getting gradually closer and we can start to move forward.”
Italian internationals Alberto Gilardino and Antonio Cassano will probably remain at their present clubs this summer.
The duo have both been linked with summer moves, but their agent, Beppe Bozzo, believes they’ll stay at Fiorentina and Milan respectively.
“I can deny claims that there are negotiations going on with Genoa with regard to Gilardino,” Bozzo told Sportitalia.
“With all probability, Alberto will be staying with Fiorentina. And it’s the same situation with Cassano at Milan.”
Gilardino recently conceded that he could leave the Stadio Artemio Franchi ahead of the 2011-12 campaign.
“I don’t know if I will stay,” he stated on Monday. “I don’t want to say one thing and then do another. The transfer market is still open for some time yet.
“I’ve always said that I am happy in Florence, but there are a few things that need to be looked at.
“One is my contract. I’ll speak with the club and make a decision with them seeing as I am valued at €18m and I have two years left to run on it.”
Cassano has been paired with a Rossonero exit as he isn’t guaranteed first team football ahead of the 2012 European Championship.
Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini believes Milan are once again favourites to win next season’s Scudetto.
The former Inter Coach warned against underestimating Massimiliano Allegri’s Rossoneri to lift their 19th Serie title at the end of the next campaign.
“I think Milan are the favourites for the championship,” Mancini told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
“I admire Juventus, they have been clever and have opened an important road. And I am convinced they will get back to their best, but Milan are still the favourites.”
Napoli President Aurelio De Laurentiis has warned Milan that if he were to sell Marek Hamsik, “Inter have a moral option.”
The Slovak international has hinted several times he’d like a move to the Rossoneri, but a €40m price-tag may not even be enough.
“He costs €100m,” De Laurentiis told the Corriere dello Sport today.
“Besides, if I really do have to sell Hamsik, I’d give him to Inter. Adriano Galliani never asked me for him, whereas Massimo Moratti did and was very polite about it.
“He asked me three years ago for Hamsik, then two months ago enquired if anything had changed. I replied no, but I was impressed by his attitude.
“I promised to Moratti that if things do change, then Inter will have a sort of moral option on Hamsik.”
Gennaro Gattuso is doubtful that Napoli’s Marek Hamsik will be joining him at Milan for the new season.
The Slovakian is sending signals to the Rossoneri, but the Italian veteran believes his asking price will put a stop to the move.
“It is clear that Milan like Hamsik, but I don’t think that there is the money to get him because I am seeing figures of €30m and €40m,” he told Sky Sport 24.
“The disagreements over the television rights could also be an obstacle in talks between the two clubs.
“We could certainly be more competitive with Hamsik, but if we want to win the Champions League then he won’t be enough.”
The 2006 World Cup winner has again committed his future to the club and hopes that Antonio Cassano will continue his adventure in Rossonero.
“I have another year left on my contract and I’ll remain,” continued the former Salernitana player. “Milan is my home. I’m happy here and I’m the one who decides.
“Cassano? I hope he stays,” Gattuso added. “Although I do understand that he wants to play regularly with the European Championship next summer.”
OFFICIAL: Verdi & Oduamadi to Torino, Comi to AC Milan 1.7 ||webmaster
This just in from Torino's official website: they have signed Simone Verdi & Nnamdi Oduamadi from us and we signed Gianmario Comi from them. All deals are on a co-ownership basis.
