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The battle between Milan and Montpellier drags on, as it’s reported Adriano Galliani has scrapped his trip for talks about Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa.
It is well known that the Rossoneri are interested in the defender, whose contract with Montpellier expires next summer.
Despite that situation, the French club is refusing to even negotiate for less than €18m compared to the €6m offered so far.
According to Sky Sport Italia transfer guru Gianluca Di Marzio, Milan Vice-President Galliani has abandoned a planned trip to Montpellier for talks.
Galliani was also irritated at President Louis Nicollin referring to him as ‘Kojak’ in an interview with French television.
It is possible Milan will instead wait until Yanga-Mbiwa is out of contract and take him on a free transfer.
Meanwhile, the Rossoneri have officially loaned 21-year-old Michelangelo Albertazzi to Hellas Verona with an option to buy into a co-ownership agreement.
Pato proud to wear Inzaghi's shirt 31.7 ||webmaster
Antonio Di Natale reveals he turned down Milan, but “I wouldn’t leave Udinese even for Real Madrid.”
The veteran Serie A hitman has become a symbol at the Stadio Friuli and assures fans that is not going to change.
“It’s true, Milan wanted me, but I wouldn’t leave Udinese even if Real Madrid came knocking. I want to end my career here and score many more goals,” he said in his Press conference.
“My target is to reach 150 goals with Udinese, which would be satisfying, but the team results count even more.
“It would also be good to match Alessandro Del Piero’s Serie A tally of 188 goals. He’s a champion and it’s a shame he’s gone,” added the striker now on 153 top flight goals.
Di Natale’s new partner at the Stadio Friuli is Luis Muriel, who has returned from his loan spell at Lecce.
“He had a great campaign at Lecce and has so much quality, but obviously he needs to work hard. In a year or two, he could become like Alexis Sanchez. It’s true he arrived a little heavy at pre-season training, but he is young and can only get better.”
Di Natale only started pre-season training at the weekend, as he was given extra vacation time due to Italy reaching the Euro 2012 Final.
“In the opening match with Spain I made up for the penalty I missed against them in the Euro 2008 shoot-out.
“This was a great experience and we would’ve won the trophy if it hadn’t been Spain in the Final. In any case, it was an impressive tournament for the Azzurri.”
Valencia have officially agreed a deal for Milan defender Didac Vila, pending a medical, announced the club.
The Spanish side released a statement confirming a season-long loan for the Rossoneri player.
The 23-year-old spent last term on loan at another Liga side, Espanyol, and it’s reported Valencia have an enforced option to buy for €4.2m next summer.
Gattuso: 'AC Milan became chaotic' 31.7 ||webmaster
Gennaro Gattuso reveals he left Milan because “the locker room was out of control with things I’d never seen in 13 years.”
The midfielder was offered a new contract after his deal expired, but believed his time at San Siro was over and has now joined Swiss team Sion.
“The locker room was out of control in the last two or three months with things I’d never seen in 13 years with the Rossoneri,” Gattuso told France Football.
“The rules were no longer respected and the older players, who were irritated, no longer had the strength or the willpower to tell their teammates off. At that point I realised it was time to leave, even though the contract renewal was already prepared.
“When we had training at 9.30am, many arrived just 10 minutes beforehand and nobody would say anything. I’d arrive 45 minutes early in order to do some exercises, get a massage or even just to relax with a cup of coffee. That’s the sporting culture you get after years of experience.
“Or, when we had lunch at 13.00, some turned up 15 minutes late. There was no respect for the rules.
“If in a group of 25 players the rules are not respected, then it’s immediately chaos. These are things that sap energy from the older players too, as they get irritated at wasting time criticising the others.
“The thing that really annoyed me was that nobody said anything. I no longer felt like Rino Gattuso in that locker room, so I realised it was time to leave.”
Berlusconi on need for new AC Milan 31.7 ||webmaster
Milan President Silvio Berlusconi has conceded that the club can’t afford to spend big on the transfer market – but failed to rule out a return for Kaka.
Speaking with Milan Channel on Tuesday, the former Italian Prime Minister moved to reassure anxious fans that the summer revolution at San Siro will not affect their ambitions.
“I believe the present Milan side, contrary to what journalists say, is a strong squad with five super champions in attack which no other Italian team can match,” he noted.
“We feel very strong and I’m certain we will be protagonists in Serie A. I have faith in a good season.
“The economical situation doesn’t allow us to have highly-paid players, like those which have marked our previous transfer campaigns. Milan can’t afford that, but it doesn’t mean we are giving up on winning.
“It means that we have to develop a strong youth system and a network of scouts who are on the hunt right across the world.
“Barcelona did that and we have to follow that path to construct a strong and winning Milan. My Milan started that way under Arrigo Sacchi.
“I tell the fans to stay calm. There is an opportunity to play an entertaining and effective brand of football, even in a climate where we can’t afford any crazy spending.
“They shouldn’t be scared of change, but they need patience. It will take longer than one season.”
It became clear in June that the Diavolo were set for some big changes after the likes of Alessandro Nesta, Gennaro Gattuso, Clarence Seedorf and Pippo Inzaghi all left at the end of their contracts.
Milan then sold Thiago Silva and Zlatan Ibrahimovic to Paris Saint-Germain for around €65m.
“We’ve waved goodbye to 11 players, of which I include Andrea Pirlo, for financial reasons,” Berlusconi added. “It was painful but necessary.
“It was impossible for us to reject Paris Saint-Germain’s offer for Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva. It has saved us a lot of money in transfers and wages, meaning our finances are secure for the next three or four years.
“We didn’t intend to sell and said no at the start, but Leonardo insisted. We then thought about the Financial Fair Play. We had to accept with our weeping hearts.
“I’m convinced that we won’t miss Ibra in attack. At the back we have a new signing in Francesco Acerbi who we believe in and the market is still open. We only need to strengthen in defence.”
That statement does seem to contradict the market activity of Adriano Galliani who is attempting to re-sign Kaka from Real Madrid.
“I haven’t talked to Galliani and the other directors about Kaka. He is still in our hearts as a player and a man. I won’t rule out this possibility, but we have to look at the situation.”
Berlusconi also said he would be willing to consider selling a stake in the club in order to improve their spending power.
“The doors are open for foreign investment. Whatever is good for Milan will be considered. Milan are the most successful club side in the world and I’m sure we will continue to be at the top in all competitions.”
Thiago Silva understands AC Milan decision 31.7 ||webmaster
Thiago Silva has admitted that he knew it would be almost impossible for Milan to turn down Paris Saint-Germain’s offer for his services.
The Diavolo initially snubbed a PSG bid for the Brazilian and instead extended his contract. However, just weeks later, the French club announced the defender’s capture.
“I had clearly said to everybody that I wanted to stay at Milan until the end of my agreement,” Thiago Silva told the Gazzetta dello Sport.
“PSG director Leonardo phoned me to tell me that negotiations had re-opened, that he wanted me and I was a bit confused.
“I spoke to Massimo Ambrosini and told him that I didn’t know anything, but I knew that Milan had some economical difficulties and that it would have been difficult for me to stay.
“If that wasn’t the case then I would still be at Milan today because I’m not a mercenary and Milan is my home.
“Saying that, Milan did some great business because they signed me for €10m and sold me for €42m.”
The Diavolo have made massive changes this summer after a host of veterans left at the end of their contracts, while Zlatan Ibrahimovic was sold to PSG too.
“Serie A remains a successful product that people passionately follow around the world,” he continued.
“Milan are poorer without the senators Gennaro Gattuso, Pippo Inzaghi and Clarence Seedorf. The club have lost a lot and the team needs to be reformed, but Allegri is an intelligent Coach and will know what to do.
“Alexandre Pato can lead this new Milan. I see that he has great faith in himself and he has the desire to prove his worth.”
With Serie A now in his past, Thiago Silva is looking forward to the new challenge that awaits him in the French capital.
“Everyone has spoken well of boss Carlo Ancelotti and with him and Ibra, it will feel like having a bit of Milan still with me,” he noted.
“I want to go as far as possible in the Champions League, come up against my ex-teammates and hopefully beat them...”
Dynamo Kiev have announced the imminent signing of Milan full-back Taye Taiwo, subject to a medical to be held tomorrow.
The left-back only joined the Rossoneri last summer, on a free transfer from Marseille, but struggled to settle at the club and was shipped out to Premier League side Queens Park Rangers in January.
Linked with a number of destinations, Ukrainian outfit Dynamo have laid claim to agreeing a deal for the 27-year-old.
“The Ukrainian club confirm that the player is not expected before tonight to have the traditional medical, before signing with the club.
“A photo shoot will also follow to capture the event,” read a statement on the club’s official website.
Exact details of the agreement in place with Milan are not yet known, but it is understood that the Rossoneri will receive €500,000 for an initial 12-month loan of the player, with Dyname then having the option to purchase him for a further €2m.
Francesco Lodi has committed his future to Catania on the day that he is being linked with a move to Milan.
Reports earlier today suggested that the Rossoneri were looking at the possibility of making a bid for the playmaker.
However, the midfielder has insisted that if he does leave his current club then he won’t be the reason for a departure.
“I’m eternally grateful to Catania for giving me a chance,” the 28-year-old is quoted as saying. “If I do go then it will be because the club want to sell me – I won’t ask them to let me go.”
The former Udinese and Empoli player moved to Catania in January 2011 after a spell at Frosinone in Serie B.
Milan are showing an interest in Catania midfielder Francesco Lodi, according to Sport Mediaset.
Diavolo boss Massimiliano Allegri revealed a desire for a new playmaker earlier this summer and the Italian is today being paired.
The former Udinese player was a revelation in Serie A last term and was on the radar of Italy boss Cesare Prandelli – although he was never called up by the tactician.
It is being claimed that Milan have spoken with the 28-year-old’s agent to understand the potential costs involved in signing him.
Lodi scored nine goals in 37 League games during 2011-12.
AC Milan's Taiwo heading to Dynamo Kiev 30.7 ||webmaster
Taye Taiwo is reportedly on the verge of a Milan exit after flying out for a medical with Dynamo Kiev.
The Nigerian isn’t a part of boss Massimiliano Allegri’s plans at Milanello and he has been made available for transfer.
The left-back moved to San Siro last summer on a Bosman from Marseille, but quickly switched to QPR in January on a loan basis.
Taiwo, according to Sky Sport Italia, will move to the Russian club on a temporary basis at a cost of €500,000. Dynamo will have the option to sign him outright for a further €2m.
Urby Emanuelson is confident “this has to be a good season for me” after he scored Milan’s winners against Chelsea and Schalke 04.
The Dutchman played as part of a Christmas Tree formation in last night’s 1-0 victory over Chelsea in Miami, joining Kevin-Prince Boateng and Stephan El Shaarawy.
“It was a good game for us,” he told Milan Channel. “We did well in defence and I am happy to have scored another goal.
“This has to be a good season for me, better than the last. So far I’ve done well this summer with two goals in as many games and I want to continue like this.
“I feel good and having played two seasons at Milan really helped me grow as a player. Now the team is doing better too, as the internationals have joined pre-season training and without doubt that helps.”
Emanuelson was particularly won over by new teammate Riccardo Montolivo, who played in front of the defence.
“Montolivo did very well, seemed relaxed with good possession and very confident in his own abilities.”
Roberto Di Matteo was impressed after Chelsea fell to a friendly defeat in Miami. “Milan are a good team with a lot of internationals so it was a good test for us.”
The Champions League winners were beaten 1-0 as part of their US tour on Saturday night thanks to a goal from Urby Emanuelson.
“It is always better to win, it gives you a good feeling, so we are disappointed with the result but I thought there was a big improvement from Wednesday’s game,” Di Matteo told the official club website.
“It was a very tactical game for long periods of time. There were small periods in the first half when it opened up a little bit and maybe towards the end after they scored we got a little bit stretched because we tried to equalise, but Milan are a good team with a lot of internationals so it was a good test for us.”
Chelsea fielded a very strong side including John Terry, Ashley Cole, Eden Hazard and Petr Cech.
Friendly: AC Milan 1:0 Chelsea - highlights 29.7 ||webmaster
Palermo President Maurizio Zamparini warns “Roma have to improve their offer” for Federico Balzaretti to €5m after the left-back chose them ahead of Napoli and Milan.
This week the Sicilians had confirmed Napoli provided the highest bid for 31-year-old Balzaretti, but it is now reported the player would prefer an Olimpico switch instead.
“The interest from Roma is the most intense,” President Zamparini told Radio Radio.
“Recently Juventus also stepped forward, but we’ll see what happens. Federico told me if he had to choose a city to live in, then Rome would be fantastic.
“However, Roma have to improve their offer and at least match that of Napoli. That means reaching €5m cash with no player exchanges involved.
“We can take several options into consideration, such as a paid loan or a permanent transfer with payments spread out.”
Zamparini also confirmed that Milan have stepped forward, hoping for a cheap swoop like the one that brought Antonio Nocerino to San Siro last summer for €500,000.
“Milan have come forward and want a Nocerino-style deal, but there’s no chance. Balzaretti is not Nocerino.”
Massimiliano Allegri was pleased with Milan’s prestigious victory over Chelsea. “These games help your self-confidence to grow.”
The Rossoneri secured an impressive 1-0 friendly win in Miami last night thanks to Urby Emanuelson’s goal.
“It was a good test and the lads behaved well,” the Coach told Milan Channel.
“We were very organised in defence and also created plenty of chances in attack. It was good to end the game without injuries, so we can say that we’re working fairly well towards the start of the season.
“In the first half we went very close to a goal, at times making the wrong decision in the final pass. We didn’t run many risks other than from set plays, so I’m satisfied.”
Emanuelson scored the winner against both Schalke 04 and Chelsea over the past few days.
“Urby is in good shape, as are many other players. These games help your self-confidence to grow and that is something we need to work on.”
Montolivo: 'AC Milan still strong' 29.7 ||webmaster
Riccardo Montolivo is celebrating Milan’s win over Chelsea and insists the team has “not been weakened” by summer departures.
The midfielder was a substitute and played in front of the defence during last night’s 1-0 friendly victory in Miami.
“It doesn’t seem to me that Milan are struggling,” he told La Gazzetta dello Sport after Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva were sold.
“Of course we have lost two phenomenal players, but the club was strong before Thiago and Ibrahimovic, was strong with them and will get back to the top even without them.”
Montolivo joined on a free transfer from Fiorentina and has a clear message for Coach Massimiliano Allegri.
“Where do I see myself at Milan? I can say where I don’t see myself – as a trequartista. Milan were in my destiny. I could’ve gone into their youth academy at the age of six, but my parents thought I was too young and that it was better to stay closer to home. That’s why I grew up in the Atalanta system, even though my father supported Milan.
“I had seven wonderful years at Fiorentina, five of them with great football. I take with me a sense of recognition for the Della Valle family, who allowed me to reach a high level, and of course my rapport with the fans.”
Friendly: AC Milan 1:0 Chelsea - goal 29.7 ||webmaster
Montpellier President Louis Nicollin has again blasted Milan over their Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa bid, even referring to Adriano Galliani as ‘Kojak’!
The Rossoneri have reportedly made a €6m offer for defender Yanga-Mbiwa, but the French club rejected it out of hand, even though he only has a year left to run on his contract.
“They think they’re really smart at Milan. They just sold a defender for €45m and would like to sign one equally as good for a pittance,” slammed Nicollin on French television Canal+.
“If they were to come to me with an offer of €25-30m, then I might think about selling the lad, but from what I understand they want to spend no more than €5-6m.
“Let them focus on making their little movies. We don’t care. If a suitable offer does not arrive, then Yanga-Mbiwa will stay.”
In a clear reference to bald-headed Milan Vice-President Galliani, Nicollin was particularly scathing.
“Kojak hasn’t phoned me. It’s laughable for them to claim talks are in progress.”
Friendly: AC Milan 1:0 Chelsea - match report 29.7 ||webmaster
Milan stunned the reigning European champions with a 1-0 victory in Miami, as Urby Emanuelson sent Chelsea tumbling.
The Rossoneri may have released many of their biggest names this summer, but are impressive in pre-season with wins over Schalke 04 and now Chelsea.
Robinho did not take part in the Miami encounter because he was turned back at Frankfurt Airport due to a passport problem. Stephen El Shaarawy therefore took the centre-forward role supported by Kevin-Prince Boateng and Emanuelson.
Milan threatened in the first half with Emanuelson and El Shaarawy failing to find the net, while John Terry slipped at the crucial moment to send a volley over. A great team move saw Massimo Ambrosini and Boateng combine to send Emanuelson clear only for him to blast off target, but the goal came after the hour mark.
Emanuelson burst through and drew the defenders, rolling across to an unmarked El Shaarawy, but his shot was deflected off Petr Cech for the Dutchman to pounce on the rebound. Milan's passing game had torn the Chelsea defence to shreds.
Daniele Bonera needed a well-timed tackle in the closing stages to prevent Fernando Torres getting an equaliser.
Robinho did consider a move to Santos, but has pledged his future to Milan, “the last European club of my career. I’ll score double figures this season.”
The Brazilian had been on his way back to Brazil this summer, but was suddenly yanked off the market once Zlatan Ibrahimovic was sold to PSG.
“It is true my old club worked hard to bring me back to Brazil, but in Europe there is only Milan for me,” he told the Corriere dello Sport.
“Was I tempted? Not particularly... There is time to return to Santos. I want to give a great deal here at Milan, which will be the last European club of my career.”
He was on the verge of being sold after a disappointing campaign in which he missed several open goals.
“I can guarantee this season you’ll see a similar Robinho to the first campaign, when we won the Scudetto.
“I’m sorry for Coach Massimiliano Allegri, as I let him down, but I was also unlucky. In the Scudetto season I scored 14 Serie A goals, then the next only six. I am ready to get back to scoring double figures.”
It has been called ‘Year Zero’ for the Rossoneri after the departure of stars like Ibrahimovic, Thiago Silva, Alessandro Nesta, Clarence Seedorf and Gennaro Gattuso.
“It will be a different Milan, but not necessarily a weaker one,” continued Robinho.
“This is a great club and it’s impossible for it to not be competitive. The fans are wrong to be sceptical, as there is a long way to go on the transfer market.
“Don’t forget this squad came first and second in Serie A over the last two years, playing in the Champions League. We must have faith.
“I think Alexandre Pato is Ibra’s heir, as he deserves it and now has the chance to do well with Brazil at the Olympics. I don’t think he’ll get this objective wrong.
“I would’ve liked to be at the Olympics too, but I didn’t play the way I should’ve done for Milan. It’s a pity, as that is an opportunity I probably won’t have ever again.”
Among the contenders for a spot in the Milan side is Real Madrid man Kaka.
“I would be very happy if Ricky returned to Milan. We were teammates in the Seleçao and could do great things together, especially as we both want to be protagonists in the Brazil World Cup in 2014.”
Di Matteo: 'AC Milan are fantastic' 28.7 ||webmaster
Chelsea manager Roberto Di Matteo hailed Milan as “a fantastic team who will be very competitive” ahead of tonight’s friendly in Miami.
The two sides clash at the Sun Life Stadium this evening, kick-off 23.30 UK time, as part of their summer tours.
“They have Robinho, Kevin-Prince Boateng, Massimo Ambrosini, a lot of good players and stars,” Di Matteo told the official Chelsea website.
“We will have to wait to see their final squad, a lot of players have left but it's a fantastic team with great players and I am sure they will be competing for Serie A again, and be very competitive.”
Robinho is out of tonight’s game after he was turned back at Frankfurt airport due to a passport irregularity, while stars such as Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Thiago Silva and Alessandro Nesta have moved on.
Chelsea have Fernando Torres back in their ranks after his extended summer vacation and the Spaniard should face Milan.
“Fernando is going to play in his centre-forward role, it is just a question of how much time he can play on the pitch,” added Di Matteo.
“He joined at the beginning of the week, he has had a flight and jet lag and a few training sessions in his legs so we will have to see. I will probably decide after training. It will be at least 30 minutes but we will see after.”
Former Milan hero Andriy Shevchenko has announced his retirement from football in order to go into politics.
He follows in the footsteps of another ex-Rossoneri man, Kakha Kaladze, who hung up his boots this summer to become a politician in his native Georgia.
"Perhaps, I will shock everyone: my future has nothing to do with soccer," Shevchenko wrote in a statement on the Dynamo Kiev website. "It is related to politics."
Sheva was at Milan from 1999 to 2006, though he returned briefly in January 2009 on loan from Chelsea.
With the Rossoneri he won a Scudetto, Champions League, European Super Cup, Coppa Italia, Italian Super Cup and the Ballon d’Or.
Milan face Chelsea in Miami tonight, but Robinho had to turn back when problems emerged with his passport.
The friendly match kicks off at 23.30 UK time tonight, 18.00 local time, at the Sun Life Stadium.
Robinho was meant to take part, but the official Milan website confirms he was forced to turn back during a lay-over in Frankfurt due to problems with his passport.
He has now returned to Italy in order to sort through the paperwork issues.
“The Brazilian player will meet up with the squad in the next few days in Philadelphia.”
Milan’s US tour will also see them play Club Deportivo Olimpia on August 4 and Real Madrid on August 8.
AC Milan, Barcelona tracking Hernanes 28.7 ||webmaster
Lazio’s Brazilian playmaker Hernanes is a wanted man this summer, with Barcelona and Milan among the clubs interested in him, according to his agent.
The 27-year-old was linked earlier in the summer with a move out of the Aquile, but this was quickly denied by the player’s representative.
However, that same agent has revealed now that several clubs are monitoring his current situation in Rome.
“Right now I am in Brazil but I will be returning to Rome in August and I will speak again with President Lotito,” admitted Joseph Lee to Lalaziosiamonoi.it.
“I have received many phone calls and had many requests for information on my client. There has been no official offer from a major club, but I have had several agents call me in the market.
“I have heard of interest from Barcelona and also Milan, even if I’ve not received an offer.
“Hernanes has a contract with Lazio and has repeated several times that he wants to stay in Rome.
“His name, however, is circulating amongst many agents, who are all asking me for his details.”
Mourinho uncertain of Kaka's future 28.7 ||webmaster
Real Madrid Coach Jose Mourinho has admitted that he is just as uncertain as Milan over the prospect of Ricardo Kaka returning to Italy this summer.
Mourinho held a 45-minute meeting with the Brazilian attacker earlier this, where he reportedly made it clear to the 30-year-old that he will not be in his first team plans for the coming season.
Reports soon linked former side Milan with making the first bid for the player who they sold to Los Blancos in 2009 for €65m.
However, following on from Adriano Galliani’s admittance that the player’s €10m-a-year wages could be a stumbling block to any potential deal, Mourinho has reflected that Kaka may indeed stay with Real.
“I don’t know if he will leave or not. Anything can happen,” reflected the Portuguese to reporters in Lisbon this evening, ahead of his team’s friendly with Benfica.
“It may also be that he remains in Madrid for next season. If that is so then I will be happy as we have a good relationship.
“Between us there are no secrets - he knows what I think and vice versa.”
Mourinho omitted Kaka from Real Madrid’s squad for this week’s friendly with Oviedo, but has included him in tonight’s plans for facing Benfica.
Valencia confirm Didac Vila talks 28.7 ||webmaster
Valencia’s President has confirmed today that the club are in talks with Milan over a proposed move for Spanish full-back Didac Vila.
The 23-year-old left-back joined Milan in January 2011 from La Liga side Espanyol, but spent the entirety of last season back on loan at the Catalan outfit.
Having returned to San Siro this summer, the player was confirmed by Adriano Galliani to only be available for a permanent transfer, otherwise he would remain in the Rossoneri’s plans.
Previously linked with Benfica, reports this afternoon suggested that Valencia had edged an advantage in negotiations for the player’s purchase, which would take the form of an initial loan, but have an enforced option inserted next summer for Los Che to buy the player outright.
Speaking to the media this afternoon, Valencia’s President Manuel Llorente confirmed that completion of the deal is close.
“It is true that we are negotiating with Milan for him,” Llorente told reporters on Friday.
“Our sporting director Braulio has for several days been in contact with Milan and I believe that everything is proceeding in the direction we want.”
It is thought that the Primera Division side will pay an initial €800,000 to take Vila on a 12-month temporary basis, before handing over a further €4.2m next summer to make that switch permanent.
New Sampdoria boss Ciro Ferrara is looking forward to the challenge of facing Milan in Week 1 of the new Serie A season.
The fixtures were finally drawn up on Thursday evening and the port club will face a daunting trip to the Stadio Meazza.
“It will be a fascinating challenge, no doubt about that,” Ferrara, who replaced Beppe Iachini at Doria this month, told the club’s website.
“I have faced countless battles on that field of play at San Siro. That ground brings back many memories, some good, some bad,” added the former Napoli and Juventus stopper.
“We’ll look to be ready for this appointment and we’ll go to Milan to impress, without forgetting that we are a newly promoted side.
“If anything, the game will be of use because it will immediately tell us what playing in Serie A is all about.”
Adriano Galliani says there are “a thousand difficulties” in Milan’s bid to bring back Kaka from Real Madrid.
The Vice-President had negotiations with Kaka’s agent in Italy this week and confirmed there was a plan in place to reunite with the player who was sold for €65m in 2009.
“It is very difficult,” said Galliani at today’s presentation of the 2012-13 Serie A calendar.
“The negotiations are all to be done, there are a thousand difficulties that could well make it impossible.
“As always, the problem is money. Milan cannot afford some wages, especially as in Spain they have a different fiscal structure.
“The law there has changed for future wages, but the contracts that were already signed are still valid under the old tax code.”
Galliani has often complained that Spain have a big advantage over Italy due to their tax breaks for foreign players.
The Rossoneri did drop a hint that Kaka would return by leaving his old Number 22 shirt vacant.
“For the moment it is free.”
AC Milan's 12-13 Serie A fixtures: AC Milan vs. Sampdoria in Round 1 26.7 ||webmaster
Milan have revealed their official shirt numbers for 2012-13 and Kaka’s old No 22 is still up for grabs.
The Diavolo have been linked with their former hero and Antonio Nocerino’s decision to let go of the 22, for Gennaro Gattuso’s No 8, will only intensify rumours that a move is possible given that was Kaka’s previous squad number at the club.
Alessandro Nesta’s No 13 has been given to new signing Francesco Acerbi, while Clarance Seedorf’s 10 has been inherited by Kevin Prince Boateng.
Alexandre Pato has swapped his No 7 for Pippo Inzaghi’s No 9.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s 11 is unassigned following his switch to Paris Saint-Germain, while Riccardo Montolivo will wear the 18.
Squad: 1 Marco Amelia, 2 Mattia De Sciglio, 4 Sulley Muntari, 5 Philippe Mexes, 8 Antonio Nocerino, 9 Alexandre Pato, 10 Kevin Prince Boateng, 12 Bakaye Traore, 13 Francesco Acerbi, 14 Rodney Strasser, 15 Djamel Mesbah, 16 Mathieu Flamini, 18 Riccardo Montolivo, 20 Ignazio Abate, 21 Kevin Constant, 23 Massimo Ambrosini, 25 Daniele Bonera, 28 Urby Emanuelson, 32 Christian Abbiati, 59 Gabriel, 70 Robinho, 76 Mario Yepes, 77 Luca Antonini, 92 Stephan El Shaarawy, 99 Antonio Cassano.
Ignazio Abate returns from Euro 2012 duty to find a much-changed Milan, but is certain “by August 31 we will be competitive.”
The Rossoneri welcomed back their Italian internationals from summer vacation, but have lost the likes of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Thiago Silva, Alessandro Nesta, Gennaro Gattuso, Pippo Inzaghi, Clarence Seedorf and Mark Van Bommel.
“This season will be different for the team. Many important players have left and now it is up to us to unite and try to win something,” Abate told Milan Channel.
“It is too early to pass judgement. As long as President Silvio Berlusconi and Adriano Galliani are here, I am certain by August 31 we will be a competitive squad.
“I am happy Mattia De Sciglio is doing so well, as he came from the youth academy like me and knows what it means to wear the Milan jersey.
“Everyone will miss Ibrahimovic, but coming here and not seeing people like Gattuso, Nesta and Inzaghi is really strange. This year we all have to shoulder more responsibility.”
Abate is fresh from an impressive Euro 2012 run that took Italy to the Final.
“The best memory of the Euros is certainly our unity as a group, because reaching the Final was a result of that unity. Now it’s normal to struggle in the first few training sessions, but the vacation was so short that I am already in good shape.”
After Kaka’s agent confirmed talks with Milan, Spanish media warn Real Madrid won’t release him for less than €20m.
“Did we talk about Kaka? Yes, but don’t ask me to say any more than that,” representative Gaetano Paolillo told Sky Sport Italia cameras after leaving a second meeting with Adriano Galliani today.
The wheels are in motion for a sensational return to San Siro just three years after completing a €56m move, but it won’t be easy for the 30-year-old.
“This situation has been dragging on since last summer. Now it is official and I think Kaka’s time at Real has been over for a while. Jose Mourinho did everything to recover him, but we never really saw the player who was at Milan,” Cadena Cope correspondent Arancha Rodriguez told RadioCalciomercato.it.
“It’s unlikely they will sell for €10m, as I think Real Madrid want to recover at least €20m from his sale. This is not a player who can just leave for free.
“Mourinho said he isn’t counting on Kaka, but never actually told him to leave, so without a suitable offer the player could well stay. In Spain there is talk of meetings with Brazilian and Chinese clubs.
“The problem is that he earns €10m per season and in the current economic crisis nobody can afford those wages. Kaka was waiting for an offer from PSG that never came.”
Like Italy, Spain have been forced to make massive cut-backs amid financial difficulties and this is spreading to their football clubs.
“Last year there were 21 clubs with problems, but now we just can’t go on like this. The Spanish Minister for Sport asked the clubs not to make big transfer moves, as it would be jarring with what is going on in the rest of the country.”
Kaka agent confirms AC Milan talks 25.7 ||webmaster
Milan boss Massimiliano Allegri has conceded that his side will have to change their footballing philosophy after the sale of Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
The Swedish international was regularly the man to make a difference for the Diavolo before he joined Paris Saint-Germain this month.
“Ibra’s loss means we will certainly have to change the way we play football,” Allegri stated after the 1-0 friendly win over Schalke.
“But the club are aware of what we still need on the transfer market.”
The Diavolo were criticised at the weekend after being beaten by Inter and Juventus in a three-team tournament, but Urby Emanuelson got them back on track with a goal in Germany.
“Emanuelson is one of the most technically gifted players that we have,” the former Cagliari boss added.
“I’m happy because in the Trofeo Tim we paid the price for individual errors, but we hardly suffered against Schalke and we proved dangerous.
“The victory is worth nothing, but it is good for morale. The comments about us after the TIM trophy were ungenerous, but it is important that we are ready on August 26.”
Cagliari have yet again made it clear that they will not sell Davide Astori to Italian giants Milan this summer.
“Astori to the Rossoneri? Absolutely not,” was the brief response of Rossoblu President Massimo Cellino when asked about his star centre-back.
The Diavolo are looking for a new stopper following the decision to sell Thiago Silva to Paris Saint-Germain.
Astori, 25, is actually a product of the Milan youth system. He joined Cagliari in 2008 and rejected a big money move to Spartak Moscow earlier this month.
The defender was named in Italy’s preliminary 32-man squad for Euro 2012, but failed to make the final cut.
He has a contract in Sardinia until June 2015.
Friendly: Schalke 04 0:1 AC Milan - goal 25.7 ||webmaster
Milan chief Adriano Galliani was at dinner with the agent who represents Kaka and Ganso. "Some loves never die, they just go round and come back."
There were rumours swirling around in the Italian media today that the Rossoneri would try to appease their unhappy fans by bringing back Kaka.
The 30-year-old Brazilian was first called up for Real Madrid’s friendly test, but then mysteriously dropped again, fuelling claims of a rift with Jose Mourinho.
According to Sportitalia, Milan Vice-President Galliani was spotted at dinner in the city with Gaetano Paolillo, the agent who represents Kaka and Ganso.
"Some loves never die, they just go round on a long journey and come back again," was Galliani's response when journalists asked about the Kaka rumours.
The Rossoneri have to win back their supporters after some started a class action lawsuit to have their season tickets reimbursed following the sale of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva to PSG.
Kaka left San Siro for a world record £56m fee to Real Madrid in June 2009, but has suffered from a series of injuries.
Friendly: Schalke 04 0:1 AC Milan - match report 24.7 ||webmaster
Urby Emanuelson’s well-taken strike gave Milan a 1-0 friendly victory away to Schalke 04 this evening.
The Rossoneri continued pre-season warm-ups with their friendly against Schalke 04 in Gelsenkirchen, though the internationals were still absent after Euro 2012. Having lost both the mini-games to Inter and Juventus in the Trofeo TIM and yet to find replacements for Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva, fans have been demanding to be reimbursed on their season tickets.
Kevin-Prince Boateng just failed to get on the end of a Stephan El Shaarawy cross from six yards, while moments later the Little Pharaoh went clear through the middle on an Urby Emanuelson pass and forced Hildebrand into a very difficult save one-on-one.
Emanuelson’s free kick skimmed the upright, but Schalke slowly increased the pressure and were very unlucky not to score on 24 minutes. Teemu Pukki had his back to goal and held up the ball for Lewis Holtby to fire on to the inside of the post with Marco Amelia stranded.
The hosts were pouring forward as the half wore on and Pukki’s shot was deflected out for a corner, though Robinho threatened with a shot on to the side-netting from 12 yards.
There were numerous substitutions at half-time, including ex-Milan flop Klaas Jan Huntelaar. Another Holtby attempt was charged down by the makeshift defence, but Luca Antonini was harshly booked after an accidental clash of heads with Atsuto Uchida and risked a second for a late tackle, so was substituted.
It was Milan who broke the deadlock against the run of play with a classic counter-attack. Emanuelson started and finished the move by combining with Robinho and drew out the goalkeeper to squeeze in the angled drive from the tightest of angles.
Taye Taiwo’s horrible fresh-air clearance allowed Jefferson Farfan to cross into the box, but Huntelaar nodded over from six yards.
It was nearly 2-0 on 77 minutes, as the goalkeeper beat away a snapshot from the edge of the box and Simone Andrea Ganz turned the follow-up off target.
Pippo Inzaghi begins “another dream, which is to be a Coach and hopefully win the Champions League” after joining the Milan youth academy staff.
The striker had been considering a continuation of his playing career after the contract with the Rossoneri expired in June, but has now officially retired in order to lead the Allievi Nazionali team.
“My story with Milan finished in the best possible way, with a goal in the final game, so it was all perfect,” smiled SuperPippo.
“Now I begin another dream, which is to be a Coach and hopefully win the Champions League one day. I try to base myself on Carlo Ancelotti and thank him for everything he did for me.”
Inzaghi had been linked with numerous clubs despite the fact he turns 39 next month, such as Malaga, Atalanta and Fulham.
He ends his career with 156 goals in 370 Serie A games.
“I couldn’t go to play elsewhere, as I could not just leave Milan. Today I received a proposal from England, but I can’t leave Milan.
“I signed a two-year contract and will coach the youth team, then I hope one day to lead the senior squad too. Meanwhile, it’d be wonderful to challenge my brother in an Allievi Nazionali match.”
Simone Inzaghi is currently the Coach of the Lazio youth sector.
Pippo also had a message for the fans who are so anxious about the transfer activity that they have demanded season ticket reimbursements.
“Relax, with President Silvio Berlusconi and Adriano Galliani things will always go well.”
Yanga-Mbiwa asks for AC Milan move 24.7 ||webmaster
Milan target Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa has begged Montpellier to let him go. “There are offers you cannot say no to.”
The defender has been pin-pointed as the heir to Thiago Silva and Alessandro Nesta in the centre of the Rossoneri back line, but Montpellier insisted the €5m would have to be ‘tripled’ in order to get a look-in.
“Now I am here, but it is a question mark because you can never know. There are offers you cannot say no to,” the 23-year-old told France Football.
“For example, if a club arrived with a project that suits me and offers €7-8m, what can you say when faced with a proposal like that?
“In any case, Montpellier have always been fair with me, so I will behave well and create no problems.”
The fact remains there is only one year left on Yanga-Mbiwa’s contract with the Ligue 1 winners.
There are reports Milan could raise their offer to around €10m in order to snap up the former Under-21 France international.
OFFICIAL: Inzaghi joins AC Milan staff 24.7 ||webmaster
Pippo Inzaghi has officially retired from football in order to become the new youth team Coach at Milan.
The striker’s contract expired in June and he had considered moving on to continue his playing career with the likes of Sion, Parma, Malaga, Montreal Impact and Atalanta reportedly interested in taking him on.
However, this afternoon Milan released a statement confirming the former hitman has been appointed the Coach of the youngest sector of their youth academy, the Allievi Nazionali.
Inzaghi has signed a contract until June 30 2014. He turns 39 in August.
Milan have officially communicated that they are willing to refund supporters who have bought season tickets this summer.
The Rossoneri fan-base has reacted angrily in recent days to the mass exodus at the club during the current transfer window.
One group of fans has filed a lawsuit for ‘false advertising’, due to Thiago Silva and Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s implied presence for 2012-13 being followed by their sale to Paris Saint-Germain, whilst another group staged a mock funeral scene outside the club’s headquarters in Via Turati this weekend.
Adriano Galliani intimated that unhappy supporters could collect a refund if they no longer wanted their season ticket and this has now been confirmed through the club’s official website.
“Milan has confirmed its readiness to dissolve agreements for season tickets for the first team’s home games for 2012-13, under conditions specified and inside a specific time period,” read the note.
“Milan firmly reiterates that this willingness is dictated by the need for style and love of the club towards its supporters and independent of any legal analysis. Milan, on the contrary believes that the lawsuit filed is without foundation.”
Fans continue to protest at Milan’s transfer campaign, marking the ‘death’ of the club, while President Silvio Berlusconi could make a video message.
The ultras are furious at a summer that has seen players like Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Thiago Silva, Alessandro Nesta, Clarence Seedorf, Gennaro Gattuso, Mark Van Bommel and Pippo Inzaghi leave.
This afternoon a group of fans even created a funeral scene in front of the club headquarters in Via Turati marking the ‘death’ of the Rossoneri with flowers and candles.
This comes just hours after Milan confirmed they were willing to reimburse unhappy season ticket holders, after a group of fans started a class action lawsuit for ‘false advertising.’
“The decision to reimburse season ticket holders has nothing to do with any legal action,” insisted director Leandro Cantamessa.
“It is an issue of style and a response to those who are unhappy. After all, a season ticket holder for a football club is like that of a theatre season. The substitution of a tenor does not equate with reimbursement.
“We are not obliged to play those who are in the squad at the time of the season ticket purchase.”
The situation is deteriorating after last night’s Trofeo TIM saw Milan lose both mini-matches against Inter and Juventus.
It is rumoured President Berlusconi could be preparing a video message for Milan Channel in which he’ll reassure fans on the future strategy of the club.
AC Milan 'must triple' Yanga-Mbiwa bid 22.7 ||webmaster
Montpellier have slammed reports of Milan’s €6m bid for Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa. “Triple that would not be enough.”
L’Equipe newspaper suggested an offer had come in for €5-6m and advanced negotiations were in progress for the centre-back.
“Yanga-Mbiwa will not leave,” blasted Montpellier President Louis Nicollin on France Football.
“This is clear as day. In order to have advanced negotiations with Milan, we would need to have an agreement. We don’t have an agreement, so there are no advanced negotiations!
“I know that they offered around €6m, but even triple that would not be enough.”
Yanga-Mbiwa has only one year left to run on his Montpellier contract.
“I am not even looking for a replacement, so he will definitely not be leaving. I don’t care if he’s nearing the end of his contract. It’s not important and I don’t care!”
AC Milan still owe Barcelona for Ibrahimovic 22.7 ||webmaster
Barcelona Vice-President Javier Faus maintains Milan still owe them €8m after Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s sale to PSG.
The Rossoneri sold the Swede to Paris Saint-Germain this summer for around €20m, but Barcelona’s financial report presented on Friday suggests his original 2010 move to San Siro has not been paid for yet.
“The club need to be cautious if they are to be able to take on ambitious future projects,” said Vice-President Faus said.
“We have to look to the medium- and long-term stability of the club. Rational and austere measures need to be applied in order to secure a positive balance sheet.
“The club must reduce the debt to sustainable levels and, above all, not take on more debt. We have to prepare for what could happen in the near future and have stronger assets. For ambitious real-estate projects, we need a healthy balance sheet.”
Barcelona are not owed any further sign-on fee from Ibrahimovic’s sale to PSG.
Alessandro Matri is increasingly likely to make his way back to Milan, though they’d prefer a loan rather than the €12m Juventus price-tag.
The striker had started his career with the Rossoneri, going through their youth academy before moving on through the likes of Cagliari and then Juve.
The 28-year-old has been suggested as the prime target to replace Zlatan Ibrahimovic in the San Siro front line this season.
According to Sportmediaset, last night’s Trofeo TIM match gave Milan and Juventus the opportunity to discuss Matri’s future.
The Rossoneri hope to take him on loan with an option to buy next summer, whereas the Turin giants would much prefer to sell immediately for €12m. But €12m sounds like a huge gamble for AC Milan.
Juve are eager to cash in on Matri in order to help fund their own bid for Robin Van Persie or Stevan Jovetic.
El Shaarawy encourages young AC Milan 22.7 ||webmaster
Stephan El Shaarawy admits he won’t be too upset if Milan don’t replace Zlatan Ibrahimovic. “All teams should focus on youth.”
The teenager scored in last night’s Trofeo TIM, though the Rossoneri lost both mini-games against Inter and Juventus.
“It may just be summer football, but it’s always a great pleasure to score against Inter,” he told MilanNews.
“Despite the defeats, we will get right back on track and are confident we have a good squad.”
With money tight despite selling Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva to PSG, it’s rumoured Milan won’t bring in a top star to reinforce their attack.
“Am I the future of the side with Alexandre Pato? I think in general all teams should focus on youth, because we have a lot to prove.
“Milan are doing this, even if there are also other forwards in the squad. We are all at the disposal of the Coach.
“In terms of tactics, I do prefer starting out wide on the left, as I played in a trident with Padova in Serie B. It’s my ideal position, as I can cut in and go for goal.”
Allegri awaits AC Milan reinforcements 22.7 ||webmaster
Massimiliano Allegri insists he’s not concerned after a ‘provisional’ Milan lost to Inter and Juventus in the Trofeo TIM, but is looking forward to reinforcements.
The teams faced off in three 45-minute matches at the Stadio San Nicola in Bari on Saturday evening.
The Rossoneri were beaten 1-0 by Juve and then fell 2-1 to tournament winners Inter.
“The lads played two good games. It was our second outing of pre-season and there were many young kids on the field,” said the Coach.
“Juventus and Inter were at a more advanced level of fitness, which is to be expected as they have the Italian Super Cup and Europa League to prepare for.
“Now those who were in Euro 2012 will join in and we’ll start really getting to work to prepare for the campaign.”
Fans are furious after Milan sold Thiago Silva and Zlatan Ibrahimovic to PSG, while many more veterans were released from their contracts.
“The club knows what to do. Some players have left and for now I can only work with the elements at my disposal, but more will arrive before August 31.
“I am not someone who chops people down. We evaluated along with the club, so some players remained and more will come in, so with that squad we must aim for a top three position in Serie A.
“The first real reinforcement is Alexandre Pato, who is doing well for Brazil at the Olympics.”
Trofeo TIM: Inter beat AC Milan and Juventus 22.7 ||webmaster
Inter pushed past both Milan and Juventus, winning the Trofeo TIM mini-tournament with Philippe Coutinho, Rodrigo Palacio and Fredy Guarin on target.
This was the final 45-minute match of the Trofeo TIM at the Stadio San Nicola in Bari. Inter had beaten Juventus 1-0, while Milan lost their meeting with the Bianconeri by the same result. A win garners three points, but when decided on penalties it’s two points for the victor and one for the losing side.
Kevin-Prince Boateng unleashed a dangerous curling snapshot from the edge of the box that Inter goalkeeper Vid Belec had to flap out from under the bar with one hand. Esteban Cambiasso charged down a Stephan El Shaarawy shot with his face.
Matias Silvestre did brilliantly to stop Luca Antonini in his tracks when clear down the right, while Rodrigo Palacio and Diego Milito combined to set up Philippe Coutinho for an effort straight at Marco Amelia. Palacio surged forward from a Milito through ball only to hit the side-netting.
It was Milan who took the lead thanks to quick reactions from El Shaarawy. The Little Pharaoh anticipated Cristian Chivu in the box and was also sharp to prod it past the on-rushing Belec from eight yards.
If the game were to finish like this, all three teams would be level in the Trofeo TIM on three points each.
Inter equalised when Palacio turned provider, going down the right and whipping in a cross for Fredy Guarin’s powerful header from six yards. It was his first goal in a Nerazzurri jersey.
The Nerazzurri changed the game around completely, as Palacio burst through the centre past a slow Francesco Acerbi and smashed the right-foot angled drive past the goalkeeper into the far bottom corner of the net.
Inter win the tournament on six points, followed by Juventus on three and Milan on zero.
A soft penalty from Mirko Vucinic saw Juventus squeeze past Milan 1-0 in the Trofeo TIM mini-tournament, but there were three big injury problems.
The Bianconeri lost the first match of this mini-tournament 1-0 to Inter, so faced the revamped Rossoneri for the second encounter at Bari’s Stadio San Nicola. There are many question marks over Milan after releasing top stars including Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Thiago Silva and Alessandro Nesta.
Antonio Conte maintained the same defence as the Inter match, but introduced Simone Pepe, Reto Ziegler, Mirko Vucinic and Ghana Under-20 international striker Richmond Boakye.
Teams in the Trofeo TIM play 45-minute matches with three points for a win or, if it’s decided on penalties, two for a victory and one for the losing side.
Marco Storari smothered a dangerous Taye Taiwo free kick, while Stephan El Shaarawy peeled away from Lucio at the back post for a volley across the face of goal.
At the other end, Vucinic set up Simone Padoin with an inspired pass, but the daisy-cutter flashed inches past the far stick.
The pitch at the Stadio San Nicola was not holding up at all well under the pressure of these mini-matches, making play somewhat tricky. Ziegler nodded a corner off target and Pepe went on a blazing solo run that Mario Yepes charged down in the box with an arm, but the shot was on to the arm as the Colombian was already on the ground.
Juve introduced 19-year-old goalkeeper Nicola Leali, who arrived from Brescia this summer, and Michele Pazienza.
Vucinic went into the box and was tripped by Bakaye Traore for a penalty, although replays suggest contact was minimal. The Montenegrin striker also converted and celebrated by sucking his thumb, a reference to the fact his second child was born only two days ago.
Traore went close to making up for the error with a header just past the far post following a huge jump above Kwadwo Asamoah.
Robinho was booked for dissent after a Milan attack was correctly halted for a push on Ziegler, followed by Pepe’s yellow card for a mistimed tackle on Taiwo. Pepe limped off moments later when he suddenly pulled up with a suspected thigh strain.
Kevin-Prince Boateng’s fierce strike was beaten away by Leali, but Robinho’s follow-up was high, wide and scuffed.
Vucinic also went off with a thigh problem to make way for Alessandro Matri, who has been heavily linked with a move to Milan, followed quickly by Martin Caceres stretchered off after a sprained knee.
In stoppages, Robinho’s toe-poke was deflected wide of the upright by Lucio.
Milan 0-1 Juventus
Scorers: Vucinic pen 31 (J)
Milan: Amelia; De Sciglio, Bonera, Yepes, Taiwo; Traorè, Ambrosini, Emanuelson; Boateng; Robinho, El Shaarawy
Siena Coach Serse Cosmi believes “it’s good for Milan” that Zlatan Ibrahimovic joined PSG. “Anybody who leaves does so only for money.”
The fans are furious that Ibra and Thiago Silva were sold to Paris Saint-Germain last week, some even starting a class action lawsuit against the club for ‘false advertising’ in their season ticket campaign.
However, Cosmi believes they ought to be thanking President Silvio Berlusconi for this move.
“It’s good for Milan that Ibrahimovic has gone,” he told Sportmediaset. “Now Milan have a great opportunity to rebuild.
“We must bring Italian football to a good level and then some might want to come back with cap in hand only to find the door closed.
“If we rebuild with young homegrown players, then there will be a queue of stars wanting to return to Serie A.
“Anyone who leaves does so only for money. France and China certainly aren’t the future.”
Santos have revealed they had a deal with Milan to sign Robinho before Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva were sold instead.
The Rossoneri needed to raise funds over the summer and upset many fans by handing both Ibra and Thiago Silva to PSG.
“The Robinho move was going through, but the sale of both those players complicated matters,” Santos Coach Muricy Ramalho told Terra.com.br.
“If they had stayed at San Siro, then things would’ve gone differently for us. We made a big effort to sign Robinho and we were very close to finalising a deal.
“Now we know it is not going to happen. Milan did not want to finish off the move.”
AC Milan will reimburse season tickets 21.7 ||webmaster
Adriano Galliani has promised “Milan are prepared to reimburse the season tickets of those who are not satisfied with our transfer campaign.”
Supporters are planning protests at tonight’s Trofeo TIM mini-tournament in Bari against Inter and Juventus after the Rossoneri sold Thiago Silva and Zlatan Ibrahimovic to PSG.
Some have even stated they intend to sue the club for false advertising because the season ticket campaign was fronted by the two now departed stars.
“Milan are prepared to reimburse the season tickets of those who are not satisfied with our transfer campaign this summer,” Vice-President Galliani told the Corriere della Sera newspaper.
Season ticket sales had already been sluggish compared to last year, as players such as Alessandro Nesta, Gennaro Gattuso, Clarence Seedorf, Pippo Inzaghi, Mark Van Bommel and Gianluca Zambrotta left.
Massimiliano Allegri has requested “at least three reinforcements,” so Milan are eyeing Alessandro Matri, Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa and Arsenal’s Nicklas Bendtner.
“This is Year Zero for Milan,” confessed the Coach after losing stars including Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Thiago Silva, Alessandro Nesta, Gennaro Gattuso, Clarence Seedorf and Mark Van Bommel.
“We need to find men who can play at Milan and in terms of their characteristics complete the attack, midfield and defence.”
Most Italian newspapers suggest Matri is the man to replace Ibrahimovic, as the striker is struggling for space at Juventus despite a strong first half to his season.
He is a former Milan youth team product and hit the big time under Allegri’s tutelage at Cagliari.
Matri is expected to face Milan this evening when they join Inter for the Trofeo TIM mini-tournament in Bari.
Another alternative would be Arsenal hitman Bendtner, as he is only 24 years old, a Danish international who is strong in the air and would be available for €7m.
As for the defence, the Rossoneri look to have lost their grip on Porto player Rolando, as he is heading towards Fenerbahce.
Instead, they are turning their focus on to 23-year-old Yanga-Mbiwa, who is fresh from winning the Ligue 1 title at Montpellier.
His price-tag is around €6m and Yanga-Mbiwa would command relatively low wages.
Allegri: 'Year Zero for AC Milan' 20.7 ||webmaster
Massimiliano Allegri admits “this is Year Zero for Milan” after losing 12 players including Thiago Silva and Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
The fans are threatening protests at Saturday evening’s Trofeo TIM, where the Rossoneri will face Inter and Juventus in a mini-tournament at Bari’s Stadio San Nicola.
“This is Year Zero for Milan,” Coach Allegri told Sky Sport Italia.
“In all 12 champions have left, some due to their age and others because of decisions made by the club. We couldn't say no to PSG.
“We must work on the foundations, even if there are still many players who remained. There is a month left in the transfer market and last season the team really changed its identity right at the end of that window.”
Thiago Silva and Ibrahimovic were sold to PSG this week, while the likes of Alessandro Nesta, Gennaro Gattuso, Clarence Seedorf, Pippo Inzaghi, Gianluca Zambrotta, Alberto Aquilani and Mark Van Bommel were released at the end of their contracts.
Roma’s swoop for Mattia Destro is not complete yet and reports of problems in negotiations have alerted both Milan and Juventus.
The striker is now fully owned by Genoa after they resolved the co-ownership deal with Siena for €7m, leading Rossoblu President Enrico Preziosi to suggest Destro would sign for Roma “within 24 hours.”
However, reports this evening claim problems have emerged in the discussions over personal terms with a difference of €300,000 between wage demand and offer.
It is therefore rumoured that the impasse could allow Juventus and Milan to push their way back into the race for Destro.
There are even reports that if Destro does not agree personal terms with Roma, then Genoa and Siena will not sign the contracts either, so the striker will still be co-owned by those two clubs.
According to reports in Portugal, Milan transfer target Rolando is on the verge of completing a move to Fenerbahce instead.
The Porto defender had been the prime choice to replace Thiago Silva, who joined PSG with Zlatan Ibrahimovic this week.
However, Portuguese newspaper Correio de Manha maintains Rolando is in advanced negotiations with Turkish side Fenerbahce.
It would be another bitter blow to the Rossoneri’s summer preparations for the new season, as fans have warned they plan protests against the perceived weakening of the squad.
Internacional: Damiao not for sale 20.7 ||webmaster
Antonio Cassano’s remarks about gay footballers made during the European Championships have earned him a €15,000 fine from UEFA.
The Milan forward caused controversy in Italy for his response to being asked during a Press conference at Euro 2012 about the possibility that some of his teammates were gay.
Cassano’s use of an offensive term drew much of the criticism, as he was forced to later publicly apologise.
UEFA have investigated the incident as it took place during one of their tournament news conferences and have handed the player a €15,000 penalty.
“Following the opening of disciplinary proceedings against Italy's Antonio Cassano for a discriminatory press statement (Art. 11bis of the Disciplinary Regulations) during UEFA EURO 2012, the UEFA Control and Disciplinary Body has decided to impose a fine of €15,000 on the player,” read a statement posted on UEFA’s official website.
“An appeal can be lodged against this decision within three days of the dispatch of the full written decision.”
Reading have distanced themselves from a surprise move for veteran Pippo Inzaghi this summer, as manager Brian McDermott explains.
Inzaghi reportedly has a choice to make this summer between a coaching position with Milan, who he left as a player at the end of last season, or a continuation of his playing career, with Atalanta, Watford and Granada reportedly interested.
Reading were another party thought to be entering negotiations, but not according to their manager.
“I know exactly where that has come from…I was sat in Tallinn with Nick Hammond and one of our scouts last week,” McDermott recalled to Getreading.
“We were introduced to an Italian agent and we said hello. We started talking about numerous players and he said, ‘I can get you Inzaghi.’ I said, ‘Okay, that's good, he's old isn't he?’
“I told him that we wouldn't be going down that road and I was happy with the players that I have and we carried on talking.
“That translated as, ‘we've offered him a contract worth about £960,000’.”
Milan are reportedly interested in a deal for Alessandro Matri and are already preparing the terms of a proposal.
Matri, who is a product of the Rossoneri’s youth system but left in 2007, has been linked with a switch from rivals Juventus this summer, after losing his place in the season run-in and as reports continue to link the Bianconeri with other forwards in the market.
The Rossoneri are looking to replace Zlatan Ibrahimovic and are, according to Sky Sport Italia, preparing to offer a loan deal for the 27-year-old, with a set fee then in place to turn the deal permanent next summer.
However, it is also believed that Juve are only looking for an outright sale, so as to raise further transfer funds to then be able to reinvest in the market this summer.
Thiago Silva wanted AC Milan future 19.7 ||webmaster
Thiago Silva has insisted that he didn’t request a transfer from Milan to Paris Saint-Germain. “I had just renewed my contract.”
The Brazilian has been sold to PSG for €42m and he’ll be joined by Zlatan Ibrahimovic after the Swede completed his switch on Wednesday.
“I’m happy with the transfer, but sad that I have had to say goodbye to Milan,” he said from Brazil’s Olympic training camp.
“I experienced some strong emotions there. It is a club which dedicates itself to its players and the squad – I owe them everything.
“My transfer to Paris was not a decision taken by me – that’s 100 per cent certain – after all, I had just extended my contract.
“People who understand about football know how things went and it was a complicated matter for me. It was my desire, and that of my family, to not leave Milan.
“I’m not going to PSG to earn more money. I’m not a mercenary, but I want to say sorry to the Milan fans.”
It was only after Silva discussed the French club’s ambitions with PSG sporting director Leonardo, his former boss at Milan, that he gave the move the green light.
“Leonardo and Carlo Ancelotti phoned me and I have great affection and respect for Leonardo,” the stopper added.
“Their project was what pushed me to change clubs. As Ibrahimovic has said, they are building a dream team. I want to make history with the club.”
Former Juventus sporting director Alessio Secco is unsurprised by Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s decision to leave Milan for Paris Saint-Germain.
The Swede completed his switch to the French capital on Wednesday, the latest in a long line of high profile transfers following spells at Ajax, Juventus, Inter and Barcelona.
“History shows us that he leaves all the big clubs,” the current Modena official told Sport Italia. “He’s evidently not a player who places the emotional issue at the top of his list of priorities.”
Secco knows the forward well given their time together in Turin, a spell which ended with his sale following Calciopoli demotion.
“We obviously tried to keep him at Juventus,” Secco continued. “But then came the year in Serie B.
“Knowing the character of Ibra, knowing that the following year his contract would expire, even knowing what he had in mind for his renegotiation, we were conscious of not being able at that precise moment in history to go along with him.
“As a result, we decided to sell him to the only club that officially made an offer for his services – and that side was Inter.”
Dzeko: 'I'm not joining AC Milan' 19.7 ||webmaster
Manchester City’s Edin Dzeko has dismissed suggestions that he could replace Zlatan Ibrahimovic at Milan.
Dzeko has been paired with the San Siro giants and agent Sead Susic claimed earlier this week that there was a “70 per cent chance” that the player would be heading to the Diavolo.
“My agent is Irfan Redzepagic and neither of us are pushing for my departure from City,” the Bosnian told his official website.
“I'm only focused on Manchester City and I do not care about media speculation, especially when it comes from people who have nothing to do with me.
“After new speculation about my departure from City and the statements of individuals, who are talking like they are my agent, I would like to inform the public that I have not had any negotiations with Milan.”
City have also insisted that the player is not in talks regarding an exit.
“The club have no knowledge of Mr Susic, nor has it given a mandate to any third party to discuss the transfer of Dzeko, who remains a Manchester City player,” said a spokesman.
The Rossoneri are looking for a new forward after deciding to sell Zlatan Ibrahimovic to Paris Saint-Germain.
Agent: 'Top players won’t come to Italy' 19.7 ||webmaster
Milan Vice-President Adriano Galliani has admitted that Italian football has lost the ability to sign ready-made great players.
Speaking after selling Thiago Silva and Zlatan Ibrahimovic to Paris Saint-Germain, he underlined that Italian clubs don’t have what is needed to attract the world’s best.
“I agree with Mino Raiola, the agent of Ibrahimovic, who says that top players are no longer coming to Italy,” the official conceded.
With Ibra gone, Galliani is now looking for a new forward and there were rumours of a possible bid for Fiorentina’s Stevan Jovetic.
“I had lunch with Fiorentina sporting director Daniele Prade,” Galliani noted. “We are old friends, but we didn’t speak about Jovetic.”
The Viola have insisted that any club interested in the Montenegrin international will have to pay €30m. Juventus are keen, but not at that price.
Ibrahimovic sale born six months ago 19.7 ||webmaster
Mino Raiola was thinking about Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s move from Milan to Paris Saint-Germain since the start of 2012.
The Swede completed his transfer on Wednesday after PSG and agent Raiola finally found a compromise over personal terms.
“The project to sell Ibrahimovic started in January when Paris SG signed Maxwell,” Raiola, who also represents the former Barcelona full-back, told Sky Sport Italia.
“Milan’s decision to sell him was a necessary one and in line with the economical conditions of the country.”
The Rossoneri opted to accept a fee of around €65m for Ibra and Thiago Silva, thus allowing two of Serie A’s biggest stars to leave.
“Milan Vice-President Adriano Galliani is a sincere, honest and a sensible person,” the representative continued.
“He’s disappointed that he has lost two great players in Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva.
“It’s time for Italian football to change its mentality and come up with new ideas. The top players will no longer arrive in Italy, but the country can develop them.
“We have to realise that an era has come to an end, but I’m certain a new one will start.”
AC Milan targeting title, says Constant 19.7 ||webmaster
New Milan signing Kevin Constant is confident that his club are still in a position to fight for the Scudetto.
The Diavolo will have a much-changed squad in 2012-13 after a host of players left at the end of their contracts, while Thiago Silva and Zlatan Ibrahimovic were sold to Paris Saint-Germain.
“Losing those two players is a big blow, but we believe in our chances of winning the Italian championship as we are,” the 25-year-old stated.
The midfielder moved to Milan on a loan deal from Genoa, a year after the Rossoblu signed him from Chievo Verona.
Milan are expected to purchase a new centre-back and a new forward to cover for the losses of Ibra and Thiago Silva.
As talks with Milan began today, Leandro Damiao’s agents admit that the Rossoneri are keen to sign the Brazilian international striker.
The San Siro outfit are in the market for replacements are both ends of the pitch following the departures of Thiago Silva and Zlatan Ibrahimovic to France and Damiao looks to be the identified substitute for Ibra in attack.
Agents to the 22-year-old, who has scored 24 goals in just over two seasons with current club Internacional, were this afternoon spotted in Milan before talks with Diavolo club officials.
“We talked, it was an provisional meeting. Milan seem interested and we will meet again later,” admitted one of those representatives, Vinicius Frates, to reporters later on.
Damiao, who is believed to be preferred to Milan’s Alexandre Pato to lead the Brazil attack at the London Olympics starting soon, is valued at €20m.
After Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva’s sale to Paris Saint-Germain, Alexandre Pato’s agent has moved to reassure fans that he will remain at Milan.
The Brazilian striker hit out at Massimiliano Allegri last winter and was almost sold to PSG in January, whilst summer speculation has linked Pato with another go at negotiations with the French.
However, despite his teammates Ibra and Silva having now made the move, the 22-year-old’s agent has made clear that his intention is to remain with the Rossoneri for next season.
“Alexandre is calm, he is working towards the Olympics with Brazil and after that will be going back to Milan to become their protagonist,” Gilmar Veloz told Tuttomercatoweb.com today.
“There was a possibility in January for him to go to PSG, but now that is part of the past because we did not reach an agreement.
“He will stay at Milan and he is happy to play with the Rossoneri. The club sold Ibrahimovic and Silva, we cannot help that. These are decisions made by the club.
“Today, Alexandre is a Milan player until June 2014, for now we are not speaking about a new contract because there are still two years to go.”
AC Milan remain great, says Ambrosini 18.7 ||webmaster
Captain Massimo Ambrosini says that every club in the world will have to change sooner or later – after Milan sold Thiago Silva and Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
“Football consists of men and their personalities,” the 35-year-old told Sky Sport Italia. “Milan, although changing, has always remained great.
“Right now I don’t know what will happen, but each year there are changes to be made because we players aren’t eternal.”
Ambrosini, a Milan legend, sporting over 300 appearances for the club since joining in 1995, continued by telling reporters this is not something strange, but something every team has to go through.
“It’s not only Milan who has to make this generation shift. Manchester, Barcelona – sooner or later they will have to change too.”
Zlatan Ibrahimovic says he has joined a ‘Dream Team’ after completing his transfer from Milan to Paris Saint-Germain.
The Swede was presented to the media this afternoon after putting pen to paper on a three-year contract. Milan are thought to have netted around €25m.
“I’m sorry for the wait,” he said after days of talks with his agent. “I want to thank Paris Saint-Germain for the great work which they have done, for making the impossible possible.
“I’m happy, I’m finally a PSG player. I’m happy for the club, for the fans – it is an interesting project which I want to be part of. I now want to make history and win.
“I’ve come to a Dream Team. They have other great players, they’ve bought the best defender in the world – Thiago Silva. As long as he is behind me, I don’t have to look back.
“Who doesn’t want to be here? PSG will win trophies. This is the future.”
Ibra has played for the likes of Ajax, Juventus, Inter and Barcelona in his career, but this is the first time that he was sold after not initially requesting a move.
“I'm very happy that I was at Milan,” he said when asked about any possible problems at San Siro. “They gave me my smile back. I will always have great memories of Milan. They will remain in my heart.
“I wish Milan good luck with everything. They were successful before I joined them and they will continue to be successful.
“I gave Milan my best and I have nothing negative to say. I just have a positive vision.
“I said that my contract with Milan would be my last, but you never know what will happen in life. I don’t want to think about the past, just the future.
“No one at Milan influenced me to do anything. It was my own choice to come to PSG. As soon as PSG made contact with my people then I knew that I would join. It was just a matter of details.”
Sporting director Leonardo, a former Coach at Milan and Inter, also insisted that the move was born from his club’s desire and not the Italian side’s need to raise funds.
“Milan didn’t sell, Paris Saint-Germain made a buy – the most important in the history of this club,” the Brazilian underlined.
Ibra admitted that his knowledge of Ligue 1 needs improving, but he has confidence in the ability of his new side.
“They are at the level of the other teams I have played for,” he added. “Perhaps there are no sides like this, but you have to still step out there and win.
“I don't know much about the teams and players in Ligue 1. I will get to know them and they definitely know who I am.”
Milan Vice-President Adriano Galliani was in no mood for talking after being irritated by journalists this morning.
Arriving at the Lega Serie A offices in Milan’s Via Rossellini, the official was cornered by the media who wanted quotes after the decision to sell Thiago Silva and Zlatan Ibrahimovic to Paris Saint-Germain.
“With Ibra and Tiago gone, what can you say to worried fans?” asked one journalist to the Diavolo chief.
“What has that got to do with anything?” an annoyed Galliani hit back. “You asked the wrong question…”
A clearly angered Galliani then walked off as he headed into the building.
Thiago Silva has already joined PSG for €42m, while Ibra’s reported €25m switch is set to be made official later today.
Cassano linked with Sampdoria return 18.7 ||webmaster
The Corriere dello Sport is reporting that Antonio Cassano could be considering a return to Sampdoria given Milan’s player exodus.
The Rossoneri will have a much-changed squad in 2012-13 after a host of individuals left at the end of their contracts, while the club have sold Thiago Silva and Zlatan Ibrahimovic to Paris Saint-Germain.
Cassano raised doubts about his future back in June when Thiago Silva was first linked with a switch to France.
“It will be hard to give Thiago Silva away, very hard,” Cassano stated from Italy’s Euro 2012 training camp. “The club need to be clear about the plans for next season.
“He is 50 per cent of our team and without him we would only be able to fight for Champions League qualification.
“Will I stay? I don’t know. I have an idea which I will keep to myself.”
That idea could be a return to Sampdoria, the club he left in acrimonious circumstances in January 2011.
The 30-year-old was a fan favourite at Marassi following his 2007 switch from Real Madrid, until a fall-out with President Riccardo Garrone.
The two men have since made peace, even if Garrone rubbished the idea of a Cassano return earlier this summer.
Ibrahimovic undergoes PSG medical 18.7 ||webmaster
After hours of negotiations, Paris Saint-Germain are today expected to complete the signing of Milan striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
Director general Leonardo and agent Mino Raiola finally reached an agreement over personal terms on Tuesday.
The powerful attacker is set to join the capital outfit on a three-year deal, worth around €12m a season before bonuses.
Milan are expected to net around €25m in terms of a transfer fee to add to the €42m that PSG gave them for defender Thiago Silva.
The Swedish international will undergo his medical this morning and could be unveiled to the media this afternoon, along with Marco Verratti – the teenage midfielder signed from Pescara yesterday.
Galliani: AC Milan will sign a champion 18.7 ||webmaster
Milan will buy a “champion” in attack by the end of the summer, promises Milan Vice-President Adriano Galliani.
The much discussed transfers of centre-back Thiago Silva and star striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic to Paris Saint-Germain has left the side with Euros to spend, but also lacking in big names.
But Galliani has assured anxious fans that he believes Milan will unveil a noteworthy signing by the time the transfer window has closed.
“I see much frenzy, but it is right to remember that there’s time until August 31 to make signings,” he said outside the Giannino restaurant in the city.
“Rest assured that a champion up front will arrive at Milan. Manchester City’s Edin Dzeko or Carlos Tevez? Let’s wait.”
Meanwhile, Galliani rubbished reports that Robinho could be off to Santos and denied claims that they could beat Roma to the signature of Siena’s Mattia Destro.
“We will not be selling Robinho,” he confirmed. “And we will not be disturbing Roma for Destro.”
Other rumours continue to persist that the Diavolo are preparing for a shock swoop for former Brazilian forward Kaka.
Agent, Leonardo confirm Ibrahimovic to PSG 17.7 ||webmaster
Paris Saint-Germain’s sporting director Leonardo and Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s agent Mino Raiola have both confirmed that the Swede has agreed to join the club.
Sky Sport Italia were leading with speculation this afternoon that the 30-year-old Milan man had said yes to the French side’s €13m-a-season proposal, whilst the club’s confirmed Press conference for tomorrow is believed to be to unveil the striker, alongside Marco Verratti.
Confirmation of Ibra’s acceptance of the rumoured three-year contract has arrived in the shape of Leonardo and the player’s agent.
“All parties are happy, therefore so too is Zlatan,” his representative Raiola told journalists after finalising talks with Leonardo today.
“Now Paris has one more reason to be considered a city full of beauty, with the arrival of Ibra.”
Director Leonardo also commented to waiting reporters on the expected €25m transfer.
“Yes, I can confirm that we have reached an agreement with Ibrahimovic,” the former Rossonero Coach said.
“The player will undergo the medical check-ups tomorrow.”
Sky Sport Italia are reporting that Zlatan Ibrahimovic has agreed to move to Paris Saint-Germain for a three year contract worth a total of €39m.
The 30-year-old’s agent has been in talks with PSG since the middle of last week, when Milan accepted a joint bid of around €62m for the Swede and Thiago Silva.
Silva completed his switch to France at the weekend and reports this morning suggested that Ibra was close to agreeing to follow him.
Sky Sport Italia are running the line that his agreement has now been reached, with the former Juventus and Inter man set to be handed a €13m-a-season deal to run for the next three years.
Reports in France believe that the striker will be presented to the media tomorrow afternoon, immediately after another anticipated arrival from Italy, Marco Verratti.
Stuttgart defender and Milan target Serdar Tasci is keen for a move to the Rossoneri this summer, says his agent, but competition comes from Barcelona.
The German international defender of Turkish descent has been linked with a €12m move to San Siro as a replacement for the departed Thiago Silva.
According to his representative, it is a move that the 25-year-old would welcome, even if competition for his signature carries some strong names.
“The player really loves the club and I must stress that since he was a child his dream has been to play for Milan,” enthused Francesco Di Frisco to Milannews.it.
“We’re talking about a guy who is already a strong player. He’s only 25 yet he is already the captain of Stuttgart, has played over 200 times in the Bundesliga and has managed 15 appearances in the Champions League.
“It is hard to find people at that age with this experience.
“Certainly, Stuttgart do not want to lose their captain. But, if they fix a price and a buyer is willing to pay it and the player wants to leave then it is difficult to keep hold of him.
“There’s a lot of competition for him. Around him are Barcelona and clubs in England - Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur are interested.”
Daniele Bonera has appealed to his other experienced teammates at Milan to help Coach Massimiliano Allegri rebuild the squad this season.
The Rossoneri lost a number of experienced players at the beginning of the summer, have sold Thiago Silva to Paris Saint-Germain and are set to see Zlatan Ibrahimovic also take that same transfer.
Reflecting on the impact of losing Silva in particular, the veteran defender tried to see beyond the current mood in the camp.
“He is a major loss. The club have done their own evaluations and there are still many days left until the end of the market, soon enough we can be as competitive as ever,” the 31-year-old told gathered reporters today.
“The departure of important players like Ibra and Thiago is regretful for all, but over the years Milan has always provided its Coaches with competitive squads.
“I have heard that Ibra and Thiago are disappointed that they are going, they know they are leaving a place where they were happy and that they have contributed at for years.
“The fact we have lost so many players makes everything seem dark. The impact of losing Thiago may not have been so bad if we still had Nesta.
“For me, it’s a disappointment to lose so many teammates with whom I shared many moments. Now, who is left must understand the spirit and values of Milan, to help the Coach, and we must all work together.”
Reports in Italy suggest that talks held between Milan and Santos have culminated in the Rossoneri declaring Robinho as off the market.
The 28-year-old has been linked with a return to the Brazilian club in recent days, with both clubs thought to be considering using Milan target Rafael Cabral as a makeweight in negotiations for the €15m-rated forward.
Whilst Santos have denied interest and the player’s agent has suggested that he wants to remain at San Siro, reports in Italy place Santos club delegates as in an hour-long meeting this afternoon with Galliani and Braida.
However, the latest indication is that those discussions saw Milan make clear their intention to keep hold of the Brazilian international, stressing to Santos that they do not intend to sell the player.
Paris Saint-Germain are reported to be unveiling Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Marco Verratti tomorrow, effectively rubber-stamping their transfers.
Both players have been in talks with the Parisians after their respective clubs Milan and Pescara accepted terms on transfers.
Reports in Italy are already confirming Verratti’s €12m transfer, although no official club announcement has been made, whilst Ibra is also believed to be on the verge of agreeing his €25m switch from the Rossoneri.
France Football believes that the deals are both at a stage where the players will be presented as PSG commodities from 3.30pm French time on Wednesday afternoon.
UPDATE: Paris Saint-Germain have announced that a Press conference will be held on Wednesday afternoon from 3pm local time, with sporting director Leonardo and club President Nasser Al Khelaifi confirmed as attending.
Santos target Robinho happy at AC Milan 17.7 ||webmaster
Gennaro Gattuso expects Milan boss Massimiliano Allegri to be having sleepless nights after the club’s high profile departures this summer.
The Rossoneri have waved goodbye to a host of their veteran players, while they’ve decided to sell Thiago Silva and Zlatan Ibrahimovic to Paris Saint-Germain.
“Without Thiago Silva and Alessandro Nesta, Milan have no reference points in defence,” Gattuso told the Gazzetta dello Sport.
“Ibrahimovic, meanwhile, wins you 10 games a season on his own. If I was Allegri, I’d have trouble sleeping.”
Gattuso himself was one of numerous older players to leave when their contracts expired at the end of June.
“The club wanted to keep me, but Allegri didn’t want me anymore.
“When someone like a Coach makes you understand that he’d like you as a director or someone to help him in the changing room then it is time to go.
“Time to shake hands without feeling any resentment and without holding a grudge. I’m a very proud person.
“If Nesta and I made this choice, then it’s because we felt that Allegri no longer wanted us.”
Fans are unhappy with the club’s strategy, but the 2006 World Cup winner has admitted that these are tough economical times.
“You can’t criticise President Silvio Berlusconi after what he has done for the last 26 years, but there is a need to be clear and tell people how things are.
“Sacrifices are being made for two-three years and then there will be a return to spending. If people are losing their jobs then there isn’t the need to spend money on a football club.
“Milan can’t play in the Champions League to just participate. To see such a re-shaping after so many years is a real shock.”
Nevertheless, the former Rangers player believes that the Rossoneri could learn from what champions Juventus did last term.
“Milan’s aim for next season could be to fight and imitate Juve last year. It was a team built around two champions in Gigi Buffon and Andrea Pirlo – and then you had the others who fought so hard that they vomited. You can see that boss Antonio Conte is behind them.
“Conte loves football and he was like a cat stuck to your balls as a player. When we faced Juve, everybody was talking about Edgar Davids, but it was Conte who kept on running and who never gave up.”
Gattuso is now plying his trade in Switzerland with FC Sion after he rejected numerous offers from other Italian clubs.
“The Milan shirt was stitched to me,” he added. “I miss Milan. I would be a hypocrite if I didn’t admit it, but I’m happy with the choice that I made because here at Sion you really need to fight and work hard.
“I have started again here. I carry my own bag, I clean my own boots and I change my own studs. I have to think about the small things, like a bricklayer who goes to work.
“If I forget something then I can only get mad with myself and if you tape up your ankle then you are looked at funny – because tape costs money.”
Balotelli is untouchable, says agent 17.7 ||webmaster
Manchester City’s Mario Balotelli will not be replacing Zlatan Ibrahimovic at Milan. “He’s untouchable,” says his agent.
Ibra is close to finalising a move to Paris Saint-Germain, but Mino Raiola – the man who represents both players – has insisted that he won’t then be negotiating a Balotelli switch.
“Balotelli was already not for sale before the European Championship, now he is untouchable,” Raiola told Sky Sport Italia.
“The player is convinced that he is a very important player for Manchester City, he now needs to develop into one of the best players in the world.”
Balotelli, who left Inter for City in the summer of 2010, was one of the Azzurri’s most positive players at Euro 2012.
The striker scored three goals as Cesare Prandelli’s side reached the Final of the competition – even if they were defeated 4-0 by Spain in the finale.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic will today accept a move from Milan to Paris Saint-Germain, reports the Gazzetta dello Sport.
A fee has already been agreed between the two clubs and discussions regarding personal terms are set to be concluded today.
Ibrahimovic, formerly of Ajax, Juventus, Inter and Barcelona, is then expected in Paris on Wednesday for his medical.
“Tuesday will be an important day,” stated Paris SG director general Leonardo, the man who has been locked in talks with agent Mino Raiola since last week.
The publication adds that Ibrahimovic will earn €12m a season after taxes, but that could increase to €14.5m depending on bonuses.
“The Ibrahimovic to PSG deal still isn’t done, but we’re focused on finalizing it,” agent Raiola told Sport Italia last night. “It is an important transfer and the details are important.”
Ibra is set to cost PSG around €25m after they already handed over €42m to the Diavolo for centre-back Thiago Silva.
“I don not think that anyone expected Ibra to leave after two years, but unfortunately the transfer market is like that,” added the representative.
“The player’s desire is always important, after all, his is the final signature. If Ibra leaves Milan then it means that he approved of the sale.
“Massimiliano Allegri? His relationship with the Milan Coach was always very good.”
Meanwhile, Pescara’s Marco Verratti landed in Paris last night ahead of his move from Pescara.
AC Milan mull bid for Stuttgart's Tasci 17.7 ||webmaster
Milan may have found their Thiago Silva replacement in the form of Stuttgart centre-back Serdar Tasci.
Silva's move to Paris Saint Germain for a whopping €42m was confirmed on Saturday evening, easing some of the cash strapped Diavolo's financial fears but leaving them vulnerable in central defence. Without any further new arrivals Coach Massimiliano Allegri will be left to rely on the ageing Mario Yepes, the erratic Philippe Mexes and the untested Francesco Acerbi. Daniele Bonera can also play in the middle.
Cagliari and Italy defender Davide Astori – who came through the Rossoneri's youth academy – has been touted as a potential solution, but Sport Italia are contending that Vice-President Adriano Galliani's focus has now switched to Tasci.
Of Turkish descent, Tasci has made 14 appearances for the German national side and over 150 for Stuttgart, where he is club captain. His deal with the Bundesliga outfit expires in June 2014.
Milan will reportedly be able to bring Tasci on board for €12m, but must hurry to avoid being beaten to the punch by Tottenham.
Ibrahimovic lawyer holds AC Milan talks 16.7 ||webmaster
It now seems just a matter of time before Zlatan Ibrahimovic completes his move from Milan to Paris Saint-Germain.
Teammate Thiago Silva has already transferred to the French capital and Ibra’s agent Mino Raiola has been in talks with PSG since last week.
Now the player’s lawyer, Vittorio Rigo, has arrived at the Diavolo’s Via Turati HQ where it is understood that he is speaking with Vice-President Adriano Galliani.
PSG official Leonardo admitted earlier today that “negotiations are continuing” with Raiola in a bid to agree personal terms with the Sweden striker.
Ibrahimovic will wear the No 9 shirt at PSG, Thiago Silva has been handed the No 2 and former Napoli ace Ezequiel Lavezzi should be given the No 11.
AC Milan still great - even without Thiago Silva 16.7 ||webmaster
Milan are still a big club despite the sale of Thiago Silva to Paris Saint-Germain, the Brazilian’s agent has stated.
The Rossoneri have sold the South American for €42m and they are also set to sacrifice Zlatan Ibrahimovic to the French giants.
“Milan are a serious outfit,” Paulo Tonietto told TMW on Tuesday. “With or without Thiago Silva, as well as any other player, they will not stop being a great club. They have great fans and great directors.
“I would like to thank Milan myself and on behalf of Thiago – they will always remain in our heart.
“As for PSG, they have a great project to do well in Ligue 1, but especially in Europe.”
Tonietto was then asked about the possibility of a return to San Siro one day for the accomplished centre-back.
“Thiago wants to play the last season of his career with Fluminense in Brazil,” the agent continued. “He would have no problem, however, in wearing the Rossoneri shirt again.
Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has closed the door on Milan’s pursuit of Carlos Tevez and Edin Dzeko.
The Rossoneri want one of the City strikers to replace Paris-Saint Germain-bound Zlatan Ibrahimovic, but may now find a deal hard to come by.
The agents of both players are expected in Italy this week to discuss a transfer with Milan’s hierarchy, but now Mancini has reiterated his desire for the pair to stay.
“These two will remain,” the former Bologna, Lazio and Sampdoria forward said. “They are my strikers and are part of my plans. There is an important project here.”
Mancini’s stance on Tevez and Dzeko could change if City pull off a big-money swoop for Robin Van Persie.
Signing the Arsenal forward could mean that one City striker is surplus to requirements so Milan could bide their time before making a bid.
Milan are expected to imminently meet Carlos Tevez’s agent regarding a move from Manchester City to Italy, says Sky Sport Italia.
Once Zlatan Ibrahimovic has finalised his transfer to Paris-Saint Germain, Milan will step up the hunt for his replacement and Tevez is their first choice.
The Argentine almost transferred to the Rossoneri in January before the Diavolo pulled the plug on the deal after Alexandre Pato refused to join PSG.
Tevez’s agent Kia Joorabchian is expected to arrive in Italy this week to talk to Milan Vice-President Adriano Galliani about the high-profile deal.
Another City striker, Edin Dzeko, is also on Milan’s wish-list and they could open talks with his agent even before they meet Tevez’s representatives. Dzeko’s agent may be in Italy today.
Milan will also try to arrange a move for Porto centre-back Rolando to replace Thiago Silva. Galliani has assigned agent Davide Lippi to this proposed transfer, but talks are at an early stage.
Marco Verratti is not included in the negotiations that are taking Milan’s Thiago Silva and Zlatan Ibrahimovic to Paris-Saint Germain, his agent has insisted.
The Pescara midfielder is also expected to sign for PSG but the French club have prioritised the Milan duo, leading to suggestions that Verratti may not go to Paris at all.
Reports emerged yesterday that PSG would complete the signing of Verratti, but immediately loan him to Milan as part exchange in the on-going Ibrahimovic transfer.
But the 21-year-old’s agent, Donato Di Campli, has quashed these claims. “They are absolutely false. I don’t know where these rumours came from,” he said.
“If Verratti is purchased by PSG he will stay in France to play under Coach Carlo Ancelotti.”
Pescara’s prized asset has seen his move to the oil rich Parisians stall while Silva – who moved on Saturday – and Ibrahimovic switched clubs, but he is expected to eventually complete his move to Ligue 1.
Gennaro Gattuso made a winning start to his Swiss League adventure as new club FC Sion beat Grasshoppers 2-0.
The Bosman signing from Milan, 34, was handed the captain’s armband and his new outfit collected the three points thanks to a brace from Leo Itaperuna.
The 2006 World Cup winner, who picked up a booking just five minutes before half-time, was replaced on 64 minutes because of injury.
Acerbi opts for Nesta's Number 13 15.7 ||webmaster
Francesco Acerbi has confirmed that he has decided to inherit the Milan No 13 shirt which belonged to Alessandro Nesta.
The latter quit San Siro last month at the end of his contract and his trademark number will now be worn by Acerbi.
“I wanted to tell you that I have decided to wear the No 13 shirt,” Acerbi tweeted. “I’ll give my best for the Rossoneri colours. Forza Milan forever!”
The 23-year-old, who joined Milan from Genoa after a season at Chievo, had initially been unsure of whether to take the jersey that Nesta wore with distinction.
Ibra-less Serie A poorer – Mino Raiola 15.7 ||webmaster
The agent of Milan’s Zlatan Ibrahimovic has insisted that Serie A will lose its last great player when his client completes a move to Paris Saint-Germain.
Milan have accepted a fee for the Swedish ace and he is set to follow Thiago Silva to the French capital once Mino Raiola concludes talks over personal terms.
“When he is gone, there will not be any big players in Italian football left,” Raiola told French newspaper L’Equipe.
“In my opinion, Zlatan is the best player in the world. He has the soul of a winner. He is a player who, on his own, can make a stadium sparkle.
“Zlatan will make Ligue 1 more interesting and his departure will make Serie A poorer.
“He is powerful, elegant and has wonderful technique. I hope the French fans will enjoy watching him play. His arrival at PSG would be an exceptional event as, usually, we only see that kind of deal in England.
“Now, it is possible in Paris, this fascinating and magnificent capital. Besides the city, we are really interested in PSG's project. What is happening at the club is exciting.”
Despite hours of talks, PSG have yet to match the salary demands of the former Juventus, Inter and Barcelona player.
“Is he unsure of moving here? If Zlatan had a problem with the idea of playing in France then I would not have come to Paris for three days,” Raiola continued.
“I like PSG sporting director Leonardo a lot, he is a great person who is doing a very interesting job, but not to the point of coming to his office for three days just to have coffee.
“The way I see things, either you have a deal or you do not – there is nothing in between.
“Right now, nothing is settled. We will keep working as every detail is important in a contract. But I hope to find a deal with PSG. This weekend is a time for reflection.”
The Gazzetta dello Sport is today claiming that the forward is hoping for a €14.5m a season deal to protect himself from possible new tax legislation in the country.
Former Torino boss Gianni De Biasi is sure that Angelo Ogbonna – a possible replacement at Milan for Thiago Silva – will be a future star.
The Italian international, part of the Azzurri’s Euro 2012 squad, is being linked with a possible move from Toro to the San Siro after Silva was sold to Paris Saint-Germain.
“Replacing Thiago Silva will not be easy for anybody,” De Biasi noted to Sky Sport Italia. “But Angelo will certainly have an important future.
“Angelo can play as a full-back or in the middle of a four-man defence. He can still improve as a player and he has the qualities to do well in Serie A.”
The 24-year-old is a product of Torino’s youth system who spent the 2007-08 campaign on loan at Crotone.
Rolando - AC Milan link dismissed 15.7 ||webmaster
Milan legend Cesare Maldini has criticised his former club for their decision to sell Thiago Silva – and possibly Zlatan Ibrahimovic – to Paris Saint-Germain.
The Brazilian moved to the French capital on Saturday, while the Swedish international is still discussing personal terms.
“I’m not in favour of the sales,” the former Italian national boss told TMW on Sunday. “Milan are not used to these kind of departures.
“I can, to some degree, understand the sale of Ibrahimovic given that he is almost 31 and has astronomical wages, but I don’t get the sacrifice of Thiago Silva.
“The Brazilian earned a lot too, but he is young and has the time to continue improving. He was the captain of the future…”
The loss of the South American comes just weeks after fellow centre-back Alessandro Nesta quit the club.
“Alessandro has left behind a big hole,” Maldini continued. “He is a player of great quality and he’s very charismatic.
“New signing Francesco Acerbi? He’s a good element and I hope he turns into a great buy.”
Acerbi, 23, has played in just 17 Serie A games in his career – all of them for Chievo during the 2011-12 campaign.
Ancelotti delighted by Thiago Silva swoop 15.7 ||webmaster
Rodney Strasser has been ruled out for two to three months for Milan after fracturing his ankle during pre-season.
The 22-year-old is back with the Rossoneri this summer after a loan spell at Lecce and was set to be a part of the first-team squad under Massimiliano Allegri.
However, he already faces a spell on the sidelines, as the club confirmed today that he has fractured his ankle.
The Sierra Leone international picked up the injury in this morning’s training session at Milanello.
Milan notably struggled with injuries during last season, suffering more than every other team in the Division.
Pippo Inzaghi has reportedly declared that he hopes to agree a deal to return to former club Atalanta this summer.
The 38-year-old striker will have had another birthday by the time the 2012-13 season starts, but after his departure from Milan this summer, has reportedly stated his intention to continue playing.
Rumours suggest that he has a choice between Atalanta and Watford to do so, or to take a coaching role back with the Rossoneri’s youth team.
L’Eco di Bergamo are reporting today that the veteran has revealed that he hopes to return to Atalanta, which represent a ‘choice of the heart’. Sources close to the player, who is currently on holiday, are quoted as saying the Orobici are his intended destination.
Inzaghi spent the 1996-97 season with Atalanta and picked up the Capocannoniere title with his 24 goals for the campaign. That total remains a club record for a single season at the club.
Milan have confirmed this evening that they have sold defender Thiago Silva to Paris Saint-Germain for a reported €42m.
A bid for the Brazilian and teammate Zlatan Ibrahimovic was accepted earlier this week and whilst Silva’s agent confirmed that negotiations for each player would be treated separately, the indication was that Silva’s talks would come after Ibrahimovic’s, with negotiations with Silva claimed not to have even begun.
However, following on from rumours that PSG’s team doctor had flown out to Brazil to meet with Silva to undergo his medical examination, Milan have confirmed via a brief statement on their website that the player’s sale has been concluded.
“AC Milan announced that it has sold to PSG, Thiago Silva,” the brief posting read this evening.
Further details have not been confirmed at this time, but a combined transfer fee for Silva and Ibra is understood to stand at €62m.
Just last month, President Silvio Berlusconi vetoed Silva’s €47m move between the clubs.
AC Milan - Tevez talks denied, but... 14.7 ||webmaster
An intermediary agent involved in Milan’s January talks to sign Carlos Tevez has denied that the club are back in for the striker, but he hasn’t closed the door.
Giuseppe Riso was a part of the Milanese’s attempts in the winter transfer market to sign the Manchester City striker.
A deal was believed to have been agreed with the player but collapsed due to Alexandre Pato’s financing sale to Paris Saint-Germain being cancelled at the last minute and City’s reported rejection of Milan’s terms for Tevez.
However, in light of Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s expected move to the French side this summer, speculation has returned to the idea that Adriano Galliani will try to lure the Argentine once more.
Agent Riso’s confirmed trip on Monday to Manchester has intensified rumours of an immediate move by the Rossoneri, but the agent has looked to clarify the situation.
“Tevez to Milan would be a complicated negotiation, but certainly he remains one of Galliani’s dreams,” Riso began on Sky Sport Italia.
“Perhaps this is the right time for the move. I am leaving for Manchester, yes, but not for business relating to the future of this player.
“But, whilst on a trip you can achieve many things…”
Santos have denied that they are preparing a move for former striker Robinho, who has been linked with a departure this summer.
Reports this morning insinuated that the 28-year-old was available on the market for any bids over and above €15m, with his former club Santos reportedly keen in negotiating a deal.
It was understood that they were preparing to offer goalkeeper Rafael Cabral as part of the deal for Robinho, in relation to the Rossoneri’s previous links with the 22-year-old international.
However, the Brazilian club’s Vice President Odilio Rodrigues has denied that there are plans to make any kind of move.
“There is a need for reinforcements at the club, but there is nothing at the moment being done with Robinho,” he told reporters.
“He has a strong relationship with our club, but for now he is working with Milan and he is happy.
“We did speak with Milan about Rafael earlier this year, but no official proposal ever came through.”
Robinho began his career with Santos and briefly returned to the club on loan in 2010, before leaving Manchester City for Milan.
Mino Raiola closes third day of talks 14.7 ||webmaster
Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s agent Mino Raiola has just finished a third day of negotiations with Paris Saint-Germain over a possible transfer from Milan.
After the Rossoneri accepted PSG’s reported €62m bid for the striker and his teammate Thiago Silva, Ibra’s representative Raiola has been locked in talks in Paris with sporting director Leonardo.
Negotiations were initially believed to have seen the two parties agree to a compromise between the €9m-a-season four-year deal offered and the €14m wage the player wanted with a three-year offer of €13m a year.
However, a third day of talks have ended on Saturday with the topic of discussion reportedly still on the structure of the 30-year-old’s wages, in response to France’s proposed changes to their taxation structure.
With the new President Nicolas Hollande proposing a 75 per cent rate on all annual salaries above the €1m mark, Raiola has reportedly been pressing PSG for an understanding that would ensure the striker was not hit hard by this. A conclusion has apparently not been reached yet, with a fourth day of talks set for Monday.
Silva’s agent revealed earlier today that he and the defender have yet to even begin their contract negotiations with the Ligue 1 outift, but reports believe that the PSG team doctor has left the club's pre-season base to travel out to Brazil to hold the centre-back's medical examination.
Pescara President Daniele Sebastiani has explained the latest on Marco Verratti’s future, reiterating that only Paris Saint-Germain are negotiating.
The midfielder was expected to have completed a transfer to the French side by now, after an agreement was reached between all parties.
However, amid rumours of attempts from Juventus and today Milan, and Verratti's inclusion in Pescara's pre-season squad, the deal appears to have been delayed.
Sebastiani, though, has insisted that only the French are in talks with the player, because of his valuation, and he expects the move to be completed soon.
“PSG are the only ones who have made an important offer and I repeat that there have been no intrusions from Italian clubs in the last few hours.
“We are dealing on the basis of €12m. If we were offered €11.9m then nothing would happen. Under €12m he would not go. I think that next week we will reach a conclusion.
“Verratti is only 19, he is a bit confused. He is attached to Pescara and it is clear that if he leaves then he will be a little sad.
“But, if he is convinced and happy and PSG satisfy him on the contract then there will be no problems.”
Whilst Verratti has been called up to the Delfini’s pre-season preparations, a muscle injury means he will not attend the first week of training at L’Aquila, instead staying in Pescara.
Cagliari have taken steps to protect themselves from a move from Milan this summer for Davide Astori by tying him to a new contract.
The 25-year-old was on the verge of joining Russian side Spartak Moscow earlier this summer, before President Massimo Cellino vetoed it at the last moment.
Subsequently declaring his love for the Sardinian side, Astori has put pen to paper on a one-year extension to his contract at the club.
Whilst that sees him tied until June 2015, the notable difference is in the improved wage he has reportedly been handed. From the previous €400,000 annual salary the centre-back was on, Cellino has apparently handed him a new €800,000 yearly wage.
Milan, the club that he spent his youth career with, have been linked with a move for the defender in anticipation of losing Thiago Silva to Paris Saint-Germain.
Reports in today’s Italian media are speculating that Robinho could be the latest name to depart Milan this summer, if the right offer comes in.
The 28-year-old, who joined the Rossoneri in 2010 from Manchester City, has been paired with a return to former club Santos this summer.
Whilst the club are set to lose Zlatan Ibrahimovic and have already said goodbye to Clarence Seedorf and Pippo Inzaghi too, they are understood to be willing to listen to offers.
Otherwise planning for 2012-13 with Robinho in the team, bids in the region of €15m are believed to be enough for the Milanese to consider his exit.
Milan are reportedly thinking about making a move for Catania’s 28-year-old creative midfielder Francesco Lodi this summer.
Thought to be in the market for another creative midfielder and likely to have the finances to fund a move with Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva’s impending sale to Paris Saint-Germain, the Rossoneri have been paired with Lodi.
The deep-laying creative midfielder impressed for the Elefanti last term, scoring nine times and assisting a further seven, having a direct involvement in almost 35 per cent of Catania’s goals last term.
Off the back of this form, a number of clubs have been linked with the player and today the Corriere dello Sport say Milan are considering a €5m move for the former Udinese man.
Milan are also one of several clubs linked with Sampdoria’s midfielder Andrea Poli this Saturday, in reaction to his calling off talks last week with rivals Inter.
Agent: Thiago Silva not spoken to PSG yet 14.7 ||webmaster
Thiago Silva’s agent says that the defender has yet to discuss terms with Paris Saint-Germain and that his transfer is not linked to Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s.
Reports in France and Italy have Milan pair Silva and Ibra as close to completing a transfer to PSG inside the next few days, with a combined fee of €62m reportedly agreed.
However, where Ibrahimovic’s agent has been in talks with sporting director Leonardo, Silva’s agent has revealed that he and his client have yet to talk to the Parisians.
“Nothing is concluded yet. Thiago and I have not even been invited to talk about anything and before any deal is closed we have to have our say,” Paulo Tonietto told L’Equipe today.
“Is Thiago linked to Ibrahimovic in this deal? No, the two are not related. Thiago and I do not know anything, but as soon as Ibra signs, it is up to Thiago whether or not he will also sign.”
Fabio Borini’s sale to Liverpool last night has kick-started Mattia Destro’s potential arrival at Roma as his replacement, but Milan and Juventus lurk.
The Giallorossi have received an initial €13.5m for the sale of 21-year-old forward Borini and as the Corriere dello Sport reveal today, are wasting no time in trying to reinvest it in the market.
Destro is thought to be their primary target, with sporting director Walter Sabatini even understood to be meeting with his agent Renzo Contratto today.
At the same time, Genoa are believed to be moving close to taking 100 per cent ownership of the player again, reportedly after agreeing to pay Siena €6m for their half share, marking a €4.7m profit for the Tuscans inside a couple of months.
The Grifone are then understood to be close to agreeing the player’s immediate transfer to Rome, for a fee of €12m.
However, Tuttosport believe that Milan, also in the market for a replacement to their soon-to-be-sold Zlatan Ibrahimovic, are prepared to match that offer.
Meanwhile, Juventus, also known to be in the striker search, are rumoured to have offered Genoa €10m plus part-ownership of Omar El Kaddouri, who is on the verge of moving to Turin from Brescia.
Nesta: AC Milan can't replace Ibra, Silva 14.7 ||webmaster
Alessandro Nesta has lamented the imminent departure of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva from Milan, suggesting that they are irreplaceable.
The duo stand on the verge of completing a joint €62m transfer to Paris Saint-Germain and Nesta, who himself departed the Rossoneri this summer after a decade, is less than optimistic for his former club’s chances of moving on.
“The two players are a great loss, they are the only two players that you cannot find in the market,” he told the Gazzetta dello Sport today.
“There is no-one suited to replace them, but perhaps with the fee received they can bring in three or four players, possibly for the future, for a prospective value.”
However, the defender refused to criticise President Silvio Berlusconi for accepting the deal, just weeks on from initially rejected a €47m deal for just Silva.
“Over 26 years Berlusconi has invested his money, with everything he has helped us win some important titles, if this is a bonus then it is deserved.
“As a fan I would thank him because for a quarter of a century they have enjoyed a lot.”
Milan are reportedly taking the first steps in the market to replace Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva this summer.
Ibrahimovic and Silva look certain to sign for Paris Saint-Germain in a reputed €62m deal and subsequently, attention has turned back to the Rossoneri and how they intend to replace them.
Rumours continue to link Adriano Galliani with a move for Carlos Tevez, who nearly joined the San Siro outfit in January and with his Manchester City teammate Edin Dzeko.
The Gazzetta dello Sport suggest that Milan have maintained contact with members of Tevez’s entourage, but that where Galliani is keen to test the waters, Coach Massimiliano Allegri is pushing for an initial move on Dzeko instead.
It is understood that a club representative will be sent to Manchester on Monday to explore the options.
Meanwhile, in replacing Silva in defence, the name of Rolando has emerged as a potential target. The 26-year-old Porto man holds an EU target unlike other rumoured target Dede, and Galliani reportedly had dinner with his agent Davide Lippi, last night.
However, the club are said to be interested in knocking down the €15m valuation on the Portugal international.
Speculation is that as part of the negotiations taking Thiago Silva and Zlatan Ibrahimovic to Paris Saint-Germain, Milan have asked for Marco Verratti.
Silva and Ibrahimovc stand on the verge of a joint €62m transfer to the high-spending French club this weekend, whilst Italian midfielder Verratti’s own expected move to the capital has been delayed.
This has led to rumours, as Il Giorno have it, that the Rossoneri have asked PSG to pull out of their proposed €14m move for the 19-year-old so that they could talk to him instead.
It is suggested that permitting Milan to talk to the Pescara player, who has been a target for Juventus and Napoli too, was specifically requested as part of PSG’s move for Silva and Ibrahimovic.
Torino President Urbano Cairo has silenced rumours that Italian international centre-back Angelo Ogbonna is off to Milan.
Reports suggested the Rossoneri would swoop for the 24-year-old to fill the void left by Thiago Silva’s imminent departure to Paris Saint-Germain, possibly by offering Djamel Mesbah to tempt the newly promoted side.
However, Cairo is not thinking along the same lines.
“I’ve never spoken with Galliani about Ogbonna”, the outspoken patron reported to Sky Sport.
“Does this mean Mesbah won’t be coming here also? No, unless it is a ‘no’ from the player to refuse us as a destination.
“We are interested in Mesbah, but he must be happy to come here.”
AC Milan, Atalanta or Watford for Pippo Inzaghi 13.7 ||webmaster
Pippo Inzaghi reportedly has a choice of two clubs to continue his playing career at this summer, or a new role with Milan.
The veteran striker, who will be 39 by the time the new season kicks off, is a free agent after leaving the Rossoneri at the end of 2011-12.
Initially declaring that he was keen to continue playing on, his choice for doing so is apparently between two clubs.
First is a return to Atalanta, who he spent the 1996-97 season with, whilst second is a surprise move to English Championship side Watford, who have just been taken over by Udinese owner Giampaolo Pozzo and have just hired Gianfranco Zola as Coach.
However, reports suggest that the forward is now leaning towards a stay with Milan, who have offered him a coaching role with their youth team for next season.
Ibra - Thiago Silva deal set for Monday? 13.7 ||webmaster
Paris Saint-Germain could finalise their purchase of Thiago Silva and Zlatan Ibrahimovic from Milan by Monday, but reports continue to conflict.
The Ligue 1 outfit have been holding talks with Ibrahimovic’s agent for the past two days to ratify contractual terms with the striker as part of an otherwise agreed deal to sign him and defender Silva from the Rossoneri.
It is generally believed that only minor details are preventing the Parisians from bringing in the pair for a reported €62m, with it understood that Ibrahimovic has agreed to a €13m-a-season contract for a period of three years.
This would mark a compromise between his reported demands of €14m a year and the club’s original €9m-a-season proposal for four years.
However, reports as to when the deal will be finalised are conflicting. Where some suggest that the Swede is in Paris tonight to undergo a medical and put pen to paper on his contract, others suggest that he is not in France and that the transfer will only be concluded after the weekend.
Further reports even suggest that Ibra’s agent is asking for a third meeting with sporting director Leonardo tomorrow for further financial gain.
Ancelotti anticipates Ibrahimovic and T. Silva 13.7 ||webmaster
Paris Saint-Germain Coach Carlo Ancelotti has commented on the imminent arrival of Milan duo Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva.
The Italian, who coached the San Siro side for eight years, now oversees the expensively assembled playing staff in Paris.
Talking to reporters this evening, the 53-year-old admitted that he is awaiting Ibrahimovic and Silva’s addition to that squad.
“They are likely to arrive at PSG,” admitted Ancelotti. “I hope they get here soon, but I cannot say anything else about these two players, who are the best in the world.
“Everyone knows that we are interested in Ibrahimovic and Silva. We’re working on it and there is the possibility that they will become PSG players very soon, it is still not official.”
Milan’s friendly against AIK has been scrapped – because Zlatan Ibrahimovic may be a Paris Saint-Germain player by then.
The Swedish outfit were set to take on the Diavolo at the Rasunda Stadium on August 12, but the tie has been called off.
“There is a risk that many would be disappointed if we can not guarantee Zlatan’s appearance,” stated Mimi Nordling-Petterson, a representative for Tailor Events who were to organise the match.
AIK managing director Thomas Edselius added: “Unfortunately, a number of external circumstances meant that we took a joint decision not to stage the match this time.”
Swedish ace Ibrahimovic is currently in talks with PSG about a move to the French capital after Milan accepted a €65m offer for the striker and centre-back Thiago Silva.
Some reports this afternoon are suggesting that PSG have agreed to offer Ibra a three-year deal worth a basic €12.5m a campaign.
Roma react to Thiago Silva & Ibrahimovic exits 13.7 ||webmaster
Roma boss Zdenek Zeman and club captain Francesco Totti have given their reaction to Serie A’s possible loss of Thiago Silva and Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
The duo are expected to leave Milan for Paris Saint-Germain after the French club, backed by the Qatar Investment Authority, offered the Diavolo around €65m for the duo.
“They are going where the money is,” Zeman told Studio Sport. “Until the last oil well dries up, it is the right decision to make...
“Thiago wasn’t the best in the world when he joined Milan and neither was Ibrahimovic. The fact that these great foreign players are leaving could provide some space for youngsters.”
Totti was then asked if their Milan departure would improve Roma’s chances of success during the 2012-13 campaign.
“No,” he responded. “After all, they are not joining Roma! Unfortunately when there are certain people who have unlimited funds, they can sign anyone and everyone.
“They have the funds to unsettle the transfer market.”
Milan are not the only selling club though, given that the capital outfit are soon expected to confirm the sale of Fabio Borini to Liverpool.
“Borini is a good player and we hope to replace him even if I already have seven attackers here,” Zeman explained.
“Siena striker Mattia Destro? He’s a young Italian who I do like.”
Milan, Inter and Napoli will all be receiving cheques of over €25m from UEFA for last season’s participation in the Champions League.
UEFA have today announced how a total of €754m will be distributed between the 32 clubs who took part in the 2011-12 competition.
Milan, knocked out in the quarter-finals by Barcelona, will be handed €39.864m. Inter and Napoli, kicked out in the last 16, will be awarded €31.569m and €27.734m respectively in prize money.
Winners Chelsea bagged €59.935m and runners-up Bayern Munich netted €41.735m.
Milan actually earned more than Real Madrid’s €38.434m, while Barcelona were rewarded for their efforts with €40.550m.
All clubs were given fixed amounts for taking part in certain stages of the tournament, but earned more in terms of performances bonuses with €800,000 for a win and €400,000 for a draw.
AC Milan? Tevez settled at Manchester City 13.7 ||webmaster
Carlos Tevez has intimated that he has no interest in joining Milan after committing his future to Manchester City.
The Argentine was initially targeted in January by the Italian club, but the move collapsed after Alexandre Pato refused to join Paris Saint-Germain.
However, the 27-year-old is again being paired with the Diavolo given that Zlatan Ibrahimovic could now move to PSG along with centre-back Thiago Silva.
“I have lots of different targets,” the Argentine answered during a web chat with City fans. “I think that now I feel settled at the club and feel good in myself and am working hard.
“The main aim of everyone of the players is to have as good a League campaign as possible and try to be champions again and also to get as far as we can in the Champions League.”
Tevez was frozen out of the City side last season after clashing with boss Roberto Mancini, but did return to action in the second half of the campaign to help the club win the Premiership.
Ibrahimovic - PSG talks to continue 13.7 ||webmaster
The agent of Milan ace Zlatan Ibrahimovic has underlined that there is still no contract agreement with Paris Saint-Germain.
The Rossoneri have accepted an offer of around €65m for Ibra and Thiago Silva, but the Swede has yet to agree personal terms.
“Is it all done with PSG? A lot of things are invented in Italy,” Mino Raiola is quoted as saying by Milan News on Friday. “We are far from an agreement. We’re as close to doing a deal as America is close to China.”
“I will meet with PSG director general Leonardo again today, even if I don’t really want to…”
Reports last night suggested that Raiola had agreed a three-year deal for his client which would be worth €12m a campaign.
In a separate interview with the Gazzetta dello Sport, Raiola suggested that the French club had not met their demands yet.
“PSG need to be convinced,” he stated. “In Zlatan, they will be buying the No 1.”
Meanwhile, reports are speculating about which players the Rossoneri could now look to bring into the squad.
The Gazzetta is suggesting that Manchester City’s Carlos Tevez is again wanted after they went close to signing him in January.
City teammate Edin Dzeko is an alternative, while Siena and Genoa-owned striker Mattia Destro is a possible target.
Porto defender Rolando may be acquired to replace Thiago Silva at the back.
Milan’s new defensive recruit Francesco Acerbi has pledged to spend the next decade of his career with the club.
Presented at Milanello for the first time, the lifelong Rossoneri fan outlined his plan to win silverware with his new outfit.
“Arriving at Milan is fascinating as I know this is a wonderful club,” Acerbi said. “I want to stay here for 10 years, not just a single year, so I have to do well.”
The 23-year-old centre-back, signed on a co-ownership deal from Genoa, went on to assess what he can eventually bring to Milan.
“I would like to improve in a tactical sense. We must always improve. I like to help the midfield and attack but it is important to return to defence if we lose the ball.”
Reflecting on last season’s impressive campaign with Chievo, he said: “I always tried to do something more at Chievo for myself and for the team. To make the progression into a quality player you must be consistent, and now I have arrived at Milan and I’m happy.
“The walls are covered by so many pictures of success. I want to win too, I hope to have a great season and to assert myself.”
Acerbi couldn’t confirm that he would be taking Alessandro Nesta’s No 13 shirt, saying: “I have not decided yet.”
AC Milan turn to Astori and Destro 13.7 ||webmaster
Milan could turn to promising youngsters Davide Astori and Mattia Destro to replace their outgoing superstars Thiago Silva and Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Sportmediaset understands.
Astori and Destro are seen as younger and cheaper alternatives to the Paris-Saint Germain bound Silva and Ibrahimovic, and are thought to be two deals that may be agreed quickly.
As PSG negotiated the arrival of Milan’s two best players yesterday, the Rossoneri’s Vice-President Adriano Galliani was already hard at work on bringing Astori, 25, and Destro, 21, to the club.
Milan’s perilous financial situation has not only forced the €62m sale of Silva and Ibrahimovic, but also means that high-profile targets such as Manchester City duo Carlos Tevez and Edin Dzeko would be problematic swoops.
Only one of those two players would also take up Milan’s last available non-EU slot in their squad, making Astori and Destro even more of an attractive option.
Cagliari centre-back Astori rejected a €15m move to Spartak Moscow recently, but should be more willing to accept a switch to Milan because he is a product of the Rossoneri’s youth system.
Destro impressed last season at Siena but he is co-owned by Genoa, meaning the two clubs would have to agree on who takes full ownership before discussing a transfer to Milan. Destro played in Milan’s local rivals Inter’s youth academy.
Neither Astori nor Destro would come cheap but Milan, needing replacements for Silva and Ibrahimovic, would still be significantly cutting their costs should the two young Italians arrive.
Berlusconi: I've sold Thiago Silva and Ibrahimovic 13.7 ||webmaster
Silvio Berlusconi has seemingly confirmed Milan’s sale of Thiago Silva and Zlatan Ibrahimovic to Paris Saint-Germain for a fee of €62m.
Reports broke just yesterday of the potential deal with PSG, whilst a meeting held on Wednesday between Ibrahimovic’s agent Mino Raiola and club Vice-President Adriano Galliani concluded with Raiola travelling to Sweden to reportedly convince Ibra to accept the transfer.
Raiola was deemed successful when today it emerged that he would be arriving in Paris to discuss the player's personal terms with the Ligue 1 side.
Leonardo subsequently met with Raiola this afternoon to hold contract negotiations and, whilst initial reports suggested that those had been unsuccessful with PSG said to be offering less per-season to Ibra than Milan currently pay, Rossonero President Berlusconi has seemingly confirmed that the transfer is set to go through.
“Yes, I have sold Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva to PSG,” Berlusconi is quoted as telling reporters in Italy.
“We will save €150m in two years.”
Ibrahimovic agrees 'in principle' to PSG 12.7 ||webmaster
L’Equipe are reporting that Zlatan Ibrahimovic has agreed ‘in principle’ to a transfer from Milan to Paris Saint-Germain.
His agent is currently in Paris holding talks with sporting director Leonardo over terms for his transfer to the French capital, with Thiago Silva also set to be a part of the deal that will cost PSG as much as €65m.
French outlet L’Equipe are reporting that Leonardo has revealed behind the scenes at PSG that Ibrahimovic has agreed ‘in principle to continuing his career at PSG, along with Thiago Silva’, with the only question now pertaining to the Swede’s reported increased wage demands.
Ibra is currently on a €12m-a-year contract and is reportedly angling for an increase on that from the Parisians who in January were reportedly offering Carlos Tevez as much as €16m a season.
Astori: Cagliari a choice of the heart 12.7 ||webmaster
Davide Astori has explained his decision to turn down a move to Spartak Moscow in preference for staying with Cagliari.
The Italian centre-back was on the verge of completing a €15m move to the Russian Premier League last week and only President Massimo Cellino’s intervention wrecked the deal at the last moment.
Now set to sign an improved deal with the Sardinians, Astori explained his reasons for switching from almost leaving the club to recommitting to it.
“I have made a choice with my heart, certainly not one tied to money,” reflected the 25-year-old to the assembled media this week.
“Cagliari gave me the freedom to decide my future, I cannot deny that I wavered and, indeed, I was one step away from signing the contract with the Russian club.
“In my decision to stay Massimo Cellino has influenced me, I have spoken with him a lot in recent days.
“He did not expressly recommend that I stay, but he told me that I still have much to give to Italian football and his words have proven to be a decisive factor in my final decision.
“Next season? If we want to take a leap forward then it is necessary to take a step forward in terms of belief.
“The backbone of the team is good and remains unchanged - I think it can be a good year to acquire the right mindset to open the door a little further.”
Astori is being strongly linked with a return to Milan this summer, should Thiago Silva depart to Paris Saint-Germain.
Leonardo meets with Ibrahimovic agent 12.7 ||webmaster
Paris Saint-Germain sporting director Leonardo has confirmed that a meeting with Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s agent will take place today.
Reports this morning suggested that upon meeting with Ibrahimovc in Sweden to discuss accepting a €65m transfer along with Thiago Silva to PSG, Mino Raiola was given permission by his client to travel to Paris and begin talks on the move.
Former Milan Coach and current PSG ds Leonardo has subsequently confirmed that he will be holding negotiations with Raiola this afternoon.
“We will soon meet with Raiola and then we will see what can happen. The deals can only be considered done, when they are in fact done,” the Brazilian told Sky Sport Italia.
Speculation is that a deal to bring Ibra and Silva to France could be completed by this evening.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva’s combined €65m transfer from Milan to Paris Saint-Germain looks to have been given the go-ahead by the Swede.
After talks held between his agent and Vice-President Adriano Galliani yesterday, reports broke that the Rossoneri had accepted a huge bid from PSG to take both Ibra and centre-back Silva to Paris.
Mino Raiola was subsequently believed to be travelling to Sweden to convince Ibrahimovic to accept the deal, which with the amount saved on wages combined with the transfer fee is said to be worth upwards of €170m to Milan.
The Gazzetta dello Sport are now reporting that Raiola is on his way to the French capital to conclude negotiations, a move anticipated as taking place off the basis that Ibra has given his OK to the transfer.
Galliani is subsequently rumoured to be starting talks with Genoa over a proposed move for Mattia Destro.
Centre-back Francesco Acerbi is revelling in his transfer to Milan this summer and holds ambition to stay at San Siro for the next decade.
The 23-year-old defender was signed from Genoa at the end of June, having impressed at Chievo last term, and is set to try to replace the departing Alessandro Nesta in the centre of defence.
In an interview La Gazzetta dello Sport, the highly rated centre-back outlined his ambitions for his new side.
“I always tried to do something more at Chievo, for me and for the team. To make this jump one needs to always show one’s quality and be constant - I’ve arrived at Milan and I’m happy.
“To be here is fascinating. I’m at a great club, I’m a fan of this team and I don’t want to be a flash in the pan - I want to be here for 10 years, not just one season.
“The walls are surrounded with many photos of successes? I’d also like to win - I hope to have a great season and show my worth.
“My characteristics? I like to push forward, to give a hand to the midfielders and attackers. The important thing is to return quickly in defence if the team loses the ball.”
The new signing was speaking before reports broke that Thiago Silva could be on his way out to Paris Saint-Germain.
“To have a great champion like Thiago Silva next to me is a great privilege. I hope to learn as much as possible from him.”
The agent of Stephan El Shaarawy reveals that he is not concerned for his player’s future at Milan and is anticipating a contract renewal soon.
Massimiliano Allegri’s side signed the 19-year-old forward last summer and he managed 22 appearances for the club in all competitions despite contesting for space with Ibrahimovic, Antonio Cassano, Robinho, Maxi Lopez, and Filippo Inzaghi.
It is a contribution that his agent believes will see an improved contract come his way.
“I’ve not heard anything on this from El Shaarawy, but he is calm. There’s never been a problem,” Roberto La Florio told Tuttomercatoweb.com.
“With Galliani there was an agreement in place on an adjustment to his contract if the player did well last season.”
AC Milan's alternatives to Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva 12.7 ||webmaster
Should Milan ultimately sell Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva to Paris Saint-Germain, they are expected to delve back into the market.
Reports are speculating that a €65m offer from PSG for both Ibrahimovic and Silva has been accepted, with the transfer’s progression only waiting for Ibra’s go-ahead.
Late last night on his way out of Milanello, Adriano Galliani offered slight confirmation of this scenario when quizzed on the move: “You’ll know something in the coming hours.”
Subsequently, speculation has turned back to the Rossoneri and to their rumoured plans for replacing the duo at San Siro.
Manchester City duo Carlos Tevez and Edin Dzeko reportedly top the list of replacement strikers, closely followed by Mattia Destro. Tevez was the subject of intense negotiation between City and Milan in January and only saw a move to Italy fall through off the back of Alexandre Pato’s failed transfer out to PSG.
In defence, the money received for Silva could be reinvested in a number of positions, with centre-back targets identified as Vasco da Gama’s Dede and Cagliari’s Davide Astori and Man City’s left-back Aleksandar Kolarov rumoured to be another possible ambition.
Real Madrid’s Lassana Diarra is also mentioned as again in Galliani’s viewfinder.
Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva to PSG back on? 11.7 ||webmaster
Reports are growing that Milan duo Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva could be sold to Paris Saint-Germain for a massive €65m.
Earlier this summer, defender Silva saw a proposed €47m move to the French capital vetoed by club President Silvio Berlusconi, before the Brazilian was handed a new and improved contract.
However, with teammate Ibrahimovic’s agent meeting with Vice-President Adriano Galliani today, reports now suggest that the Parisians are back in with a double-bid for both players and that the Rossoneri have accepted the possibility of selling both.
Because of this, Sky Italia and the Gazzetta dello Sport are convinced that Ibra’s agent has now flown to Sweden to meet with the striker so as to convince him to accept the move to France.
Speculation is that the potential deal between PSG and Milan is already at a stage where Ibra’s consent would see Raiola travel directly to Paris to undergo contract negotiations.
Francesco Acerbi has chosen to wear Alessandro Nesta’s old No 13 shirt for the new season, out of admiration for his defensive colleague.
Acerbi is a summer arrival from Genoa and will be one of the possible options open to Max Allegri in 2012-13 to try to replace the void Nesta has left this year, after his departure to the MLS.
In attempting to take the veteran’s place in the team, Acerbi has begun by taking his number, but with respect for what it represents.
“I chose No 13 because, for me, Sandro is the number one,” the 23-year-old told reporters at Milanello today.
“Nesta is my idol as a defender, even if before him it was George Weah, because I started my career as a striker.
“I want to win, my teammates are great professionals - I can only learn from them. I hope to stay here for a long time, not just one year.
“The environment here doesn’t scare me. I have much to learn and improve, I will try to work hard every day.”
Elsewhere, speculation is that Kevin Constant will take Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s old No 11 jersey, with the Swede having been handed the No 10 by Clarence Seedorf earlier in the summer.
Atalanta’s director general Pierpaolo Marino has rejected claims that the club have made an offer to veteran striker Pippo Inzaghi.
The Orobici were reported earlier on Wednesday to have already offered their former forward, who spent the 1996-97 season with the club, a 12-month contract.
Inzaghi, who won the Capocannoniere title during that single season with the Bergamo outfit with a club-record 24 goals, is available this summer after his release from Milan.
However, Marino has rejected suggestions that a reunion between Atalanta and the 38-year-old is on the cards right now.
“I have heard the reports relating to Inzaghi, but again none of them are true,” the DG told TuttoAtalanta.com.
“At this moment in time, we have made no official move for Pippo Inzaghi.”
Brescia youngster Omar El Kaddouri is hoping to have his future resolved over the next 24 hours.
The attacking midfielder is set to leave Brescia given that he has less than a year left on his contract.
Parma have agreed a €3.6m fee with the Serie B club, but the 21-year-old has so far rejected a switch to the Tardini given Juventus’ interest in his services.
“I’ve already said that my preference is Juventus, but I haven’t closed the door to anyone and I don’t intend to do that now,” he told Brescia TV.
“In an ideal world, I’d like to know where I will be playing next season before Thursday. I’d like to start preparations for the Olympics with some certainty.”
El Kaddouri, also of interest to Milan, is a Belgium Under-21 international.
The future of Zlatan Ibrahimovic at Milan is again in doubt after his agent met with Adriano Galliani this morning.
Mino Raiola arrived at the club’s Via Turati headquarters at 11.30 local time for talks with the Vice-President.
The meeting comes just days after Galliani refused to rule out any player sales, while reports from France today are again suggesting that Paris Saint-Germain are interested.
PSG, according to the stories, are ready to make a €60m offer for Ibrahimovic and centre-back Thiago Silva.
Raiola also represents Alessio Innocenti, the Italian-Argentine midfielder who is set to leave Milan for Pro Vercelli ahead of next season.
Allegri stings Juventus over Scudetti 11.7 ||webmaster
Milan boss Massimiliano Allegri has taken a swipe at Juventus’ fight for their Calciopoli titles, but admits his side are missing an Andrea Pirlo like player.
Juve insist that last season’s League success was their 30th, but records show it was only their 28th after their two revoked championships from 2005 and 2006.
Roma boss Zdenek Zeman has poked fun at the Bianconeri by insisting that Juve’s titles should be even fewer than that and Allegri has now had his say.
“Juventus’ titles are 31,” he stated with a touch of irony. “They won the championship in Serie B didn’t they…
“The truth is that everyone is making a mistake – 28, 30, 31, 24, 25…Enough is enough. There is a body which will rule on it.
“It is useless to continue discussing such a matter.”
Juventus pipped the Diavolo to the title last season, but Allegri is convinced that his team will be able to challenge again.
“My Milan is strong and competitive,” he added. “I have no doubts about that. I’m happy with the squad as it is now.
“Are we missing something? Anything can happen between now and August 31 on the market. If we could get someone then I’d like a playmaker in front of the defence.”
That comment will be jumped on by Juventus fans seeing as Milan had Andrea Pirlo in such a role before the decision to release him to the Turin giants on a free transfer last summer.
“Milan offered Pirlo a one-year deal and Juventus offered him a three-year deal. He went to a place which gave him a new motivation.”
Milan have brought in Riccardo Montolivo on a Bosman from Fiorentina this summer and Allegri insists he can offer versatility.
“He’s certainly not a trequartista,” he added. “But he can play in any of the three midfield positions that we use.”
Milan were penalised by injuries last season, but they could still rely on the brilliance of Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
“I’d like to have Alexandre Pato and Antonio Cassano 100 per cent fit this time around,” the former Cagliari boss continued.
“Is Manchester City's Mario Balotelli better than Ibra? Zlatan is the best attacker in the world and there is no doubt about that. I wouldn’t swap him with anyone else.”
Former Milan striker Maxi Lopez's move from Catania to Sampdoria has been confirmed.
The Argentine spoke to the media in Genoa last night shortly after signing off on a deal which will see the port club pay €2.5m for a year’s loan, with an option to make the transfer permanent for a further €6m.
“I am happy to arrive in Genoa,” Lopez told Sky Sport Italia. “Sampdoria have an important project, they demonstrated a strong interest in me and this is what counts.
“A big hello to all fans of Sampdoria.”
The 28-year-old's arrival represents an important building block for newly promoted Samp, whose priority since replacing Beppe Iachini with new Coach Ciro Ferrara has been the capture of a centre-forward.
The Blucerchiati had been strongly linked with old boy Giampaolo Pazzini, until sporting director Pasquale Sensible's confession yesterday that the Inter forward was out of their price range.
Former River Plate and Barcelona man Lopez has struck 23 Serie A goals since his first arrival in Italy in 2010.
He spent the latter half of last season on loan at Milan, but returned to Catania when the Rossoneri refused to take up their option on him. He had also been linked with Torino.
Genoa - Siena talk Destro this week 10.7 ||webmaster
Genoa and Siena will hold a ‘short meeting’ to resolve the co-ownership issue over in-demand striker Mattia Destro.
After an impressive season in front of goal for the Robur, the forward has found himself at the centre of a tug-of-war between the two clubs, over which can then sell him on to any one from a long list of admirers.
Genoa originally believed that they had an agreement with Siena to take back the player from his 2011-12 loan, but Siena then exercised their right to purchase 50 per cent of his registration.
Having explained last week the reasoning behind that late change of mind as being nothing more than a precaution due to a power-cut hitting original plans, President Massimo Mezzaroma has today promised that the entire matter will be resolved in the coming days.
“I think that we’ll have a short meeting with Preziosi to resolve the issue,” he tld Radio Radio.
“We want to get along with the Rossoblu, but Mattia is one of the best strikers, with perspective for the future, and for the national team.
“We would like to close the controversy concerning him before the weekend - the player has no favourites, he is just looking for a top club.”
Gennaro Gattuso will one day return to Milan, although in what capacity it remains unclear, says his agent today.
The tough-tackling midfielder departed the Rossoneri this summer after 13 years with the club and signed a contract with Swiss club FC Sion.
However, whilst his representative explained that this decision has re-motivated his client, the desire remains for him to one day return to San Siro.
“Gattuso is very happy in Sion, he has made this decision to find new motivation,” began Andrea D’Amico to Gazzetta dello Sport.
“He chose a team with so much ambition to win the championship. However, Rino still sees himself as a part of Milan.
“After 13 years at Milanello he refused to join any other Italian club. He’s signed a two-year deal in Switzerland, but his desire is to return to Milan, although it is not yet determined in what sort of role.”
D’Amico also represents former Milan forward Maxi Lopez, who, after six months on loan with the Rossoneri, is eager to find a new home away from owners Catania this summer.
“Different teams like Torino and Sampdoria are interested in him, but so too are some foreign clubs.
“In Milan he played little, but departed with a great memory. In the next few hours we will know something further with regards his future.”
Bakaye Traore has been presented to the Press on his second day as a Milan player and declares that he is more than just a defensive midfielder.
The 27-year-old agreed a Bosman transfer to the Rossoneri from Nancy in mid-May, agreeing to a three-year deal once his contract in France wound down to its conclusion this summer.
A tall midfielder with more goals than yellow cards to his name, the French-born Mali international has reflectedon where he feels he will fit in with his new club.
“I was surprised by the wonderful welcome from everyone. It is a dream come true to play here and now I want to repay that faith on the pitch,” Traore told Milan’s official website.
“I am a versatile midfielder - I can play in any position in a midfield diamond, from the inside midfielder, further back and playmaker.
“It has been said that Italy is playing a more defensive football, but I disagree - there is much more to me than believed in France, I hope to demonstrate that here and realise my full potential.
“I have been compared to Patrick Vieira as a midfielder, who at Arsenal showed his ability to do well both in defence and attack.
“My teammates who speak French are helping me in these days to understand the drill, but I will soon understand everything myself.”
Liverpool duo Alberto Aquilani and Andy Carroll have been given a vote of confidence by their new manager Brendan Rodgers, meaning Milan’s interest may have to be shelved.
The Italian midfielder spent last season on loan with Milan but a permanent deal hasn’t yet been agreed, while the Rossoneri have also been linked with England international Carroll.
Both players have struggled during their time with Liverpool, but Rodgers is keen to get the best out of the pair upon their return to pre-season training with the Premier League club.
“I had a good chat with Alberto the other day,” Rodgers told Sky Sports News. “He’s a good guy and it obviously hasn’t quite worked out for him as of yet. But he’s a player that has got the qualities, the technical abilities, to play.”
Carroll also seems destined to stay despite impressing Silvio Berlusconi’s son Piersilvio during Euro 2012.
On the towering striker, Rodgers said: “He’s a good player, Andy. He will always be linked whether he was here or not.”
Regarding Milan’s alleged interest in taking Carroll on loan, the Liverpool manager claimed: “I haven’t heard anything from them at all.”
Milan Vice-President Adriano Galliani has already said that Milan’s transfer dealings are done this summer, but loan deals for the Liverpool duo were interesting the Rossoneri due to their value for money.
Ambrosini calls for united AC Milan 10.7 ||webmaster
Massimo Ambrosini is confident that Milan can form a united squad after so many of the club’s changing room leaders left the outfit.
Ambrosini signed a new one-year contract at San Siro in the summer, but the likes of Pippo Inzaghi, Gennaro Gattuso, Alessandro Nesta and Clarence Seedorf opted to leave.
“It will be a different year for everyone and when you change some disruption is normal, but this does not rule out the creation of some new chemistry,” he stated on Monday.
“We must try to stay together as much as possible and we must try to pass on the values of this club to the new arrivals.
“There is a stimulus to do well and we must all contribute to make sure that we, as a team, are competing at the levels that we should be.
“And last season should teach us a few things – we must start the new campaign again as individuals and a squad with the intention of learning from our mistakes.”
Ambrosini is now one of the older elements of the group and he’ll again be handed the captain’s armband when named in the side.
“It is a motive of great pride for me to be the Milan captain for one more season,” he commented.
The 35-year-old midfielder has been at Milanello since 1995 after a switch from Cesena.
A new AC Milan challenge for Allegri 10.7 ||webmaster
Milan boss Massimiliano Allegri insists that he will be facing new challenges in his third season at San Siro.
“This will be a different campaign to my first two here,” the tactician stated as the Diavolo began their pre-season preparations.
“There will no longer be a host of players in the changing room who have written the history of this club.
“There will be a handful of new faces, while two or three of the older guard have remained and that includes Massimo Ambrosini – he will be an important element.”
Allegri won the Italian championship in his first term at San Siro, but they were left empty-handed last time out.
“We have to start scratch,” the former Cagliari man commented. “We want to make up for last season where we were super favourites, but you can take nothing for granted in football.
“We must have humility and the awareness within our means and try not to repeat the mistakes of the past. You sometimes miss that ‘wickedness’ when you are favourites to win.”
Allegri, however, is well aware that there are a handful of sides who will be looking to lift the Scudetto.
“Juventus are Italian champions, Inter will want to win again and Napoli won’t have the Champions League to deal with,” he added. “It will be a difficult year.”
AC Milan targeting the title, says Galliani 10.7 ||webmaster
Milan kicked off their pre-season preparations on Monday with the intention of battling Juventus for the Scudetto – even if they admit that money is tight.
The Diavolo lost their title crown to the Old Lady last term and their transfer campaign so far has been low key with swoops for the likes of Francesco Acerbi, Kevin Constant and Riccardo Montolivo.
“Our objective is to fight to win the championship,” Milan Vice-President Adriano Galliani noted on Monday afternoon.
“We also want to reduce the number of injuries because there is a direct correlation between injuries and obtaining results.
“There are still a few players missing from training, but there are new faces like Acerbi and Constant.
“We think we have a squad which is good enough to fight for the objectives which we have set ourselves.”
The Rossoneri will have a new look for the campaign after numerous veterans – such as Pippo Inzaghi, Gennaro Gattuso, Alessandro Nesta and Clarence Seedorf – quit the club.
“Today there is only Massimo Ambrosini left from the starting XI from the Athens Champions League Final,” Galliani continued.
“I’d like to say goodbye to all those players who have had to leave us because of their age. But the captain is still here…
“A young side? I don’t understand this age thing. There are big players and small players, age is irrelevant.”
Galliani again took the opportunity to maintain that the club’s best two players would stay, while he admitted that new faces could still arrive.
“Thiago Silva and Ibrahimovic will stay, but the market is still long and anything can happen in life,” he added.
“I’m not suggesting they will go by saying that, but last year I didn’t expect to sign Antonio Nocerino and Alberto Aquilani. I’ll be able to tell you the Milan squad at 7.01pm on August 31.
“All the transfer decisions have been taken along with the Coach. There is not just one leader here, everything is agreed as a club.
“There have been a lot of changes, the nucleus of the squad has gone and we have changed skin. This is a new Milan.”
However, Galliani underlined that Milan – nor any other Italian club – were in the financial position to make a significant capture.
“Once upon a time great players arrived in Italy, but that is no longer possible. Certain players with big transfer fees and big salaries are no longer available to Milan, Inter or Juventus.
“Twenty years ago we made more money than Real Madrid and Barcelona, now we net half of what they generate in revenue.
“Italy has changed as a country and the economy has changed. The problem is not Milan, but all of Italian football.”
Pippo Inzaghi has wished Milan well as the youngest Diavolo squad for a decade today starts pre-season training.
“It was a special moment every time I returned to Milanello for the first day of training,” he wrote on the club’s official website.
“Seeing all the fans outside the gates cheering us on always gave me such a boost,” continued the ex-striker.
“After 11 years, it is a strange feeling not being there and I am still trying to get used to the sensation.
“I really just wanted to wish everybody at Milan good luck and especially to all my former teammates who are about to start a new season.
“Forza Milan!”
The Stadio Meazza giants also waved goodbye to the likes of Alessandro Nesta, Rino Gattuso, Clarence Seedorf, Mark Van Bommel and Gianluca Zambrotta this summer.
The current average age of the squad is 27.18, the youngest since 25.7 in 2002-03. Their average last season was 29.52.
Inzaghi is currently considering whether to continue his playing career or accept a coaching role in the Milan youth sector.
Luca Cigarini says he turned down three clubs in order to return to Atalanta this summer, including Milan and Fiorentina.
The midfielder returned to Bergamo this summer for an extension of the loan deal between La Dea and Napoli from last term.
However, his form for the Nerazzurri last term had attracted a number of suitors, as the player revealed today.
“We had received some proposals and I am glad that Napoli and Atalanta found an agreement. One of my concerns was having to go to Napoli’s training retreat knowing that I would not stay,” the 26-year-old told L’Eco di Bergamo.
“I know that my agent had spoken with Milan, Fiorentina and Rubin Kazan, but, I’ve always wanted Atalanta.
“Whilst an offer from Milan wasn’t concrete, they had tried an approach. Whilst there were some tempting offers, I chose Atalanta because I owe them.”
Milan’s alleged interest in Andy Carroll is reportedly building as rumours suggest they are eyeing a possible loan deal for the England man.
Carroll caught the eye of Milan President Silvio Berlusconi’s son Piersilvio, after his performances for England at Euro 2012.
Whilst the Rossoneri are working to a tight budget that has seen Adriano Galliani declare more than once that they are closed for business this summer, the Corriere dello Sport understands movement for Carroll has been made.
This follows on from speculation that new Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has given the Anfield outfit permission to try to move him on as he is not in his initial plans for the new season.
Sportmediaset are also reporting along the same lines, suggesting that the Diavolo will try to tempt Liverpool with a year-long loan offer for the 23-year-old.
Julio Cesar could be granted a brief reprieve at Inter, with a report today suggesting he will only be sold in January.
The Brazilian’s future with the Nerazzurri appears to be over, after the club’s purchase of Samir Handanovic from Udinese last week and Cesar’s subsequent exclusion from the first pre-season training camp.
Nerazzuro director general Marco Fassone then made public the club’s intention to end their relationship with Cesar during this transfer window.
However, Sky Sport Italia believe that the club could re-integrate the shot-stopper back into the first team squad until at least January, when his sale would again be discussed.
This is understood to be because of the 32-year-old’s desire to remain threatening to block any possible sales this summer.
Cesar still has two years to run on his Inter contract that pays €4.5m a season, €2.5m more per year than Handanovic. He has been linked with a switch to rivals Milan.
AC Milan closed for business, unless... 8.7 ||webmaster
Adriano Galliani has again stated that Milan have finished their business in the transfer market, but admits to never say never.
The Vice-President has so far welcomed in Riccardo Montolivo, Bakaye Traore, Francesco Acerbi and Kevin Constant to San Siro and has more than once this week affirmed that no more purchases would be made in a summer that sees the club acting on a tighter transfer budget.
It was a similar stance taken last summer, except that Galliani then acted on the final day of the market to pick up Antonio Nocerino on a low-cost deal.
“Will there be another deal to conclude like that for Nocerino?” Galliani reflected on Sky Sports this weekend.
“When I say no, it is because we are complete as a squad. But, I’m keeping up to date, I’m being informed of what happens around me.”
The transfer market has almost another two months to run before closure at the end of August.
Thiago Silva didn't want AC Milan exit 7.7 ||webmaster
Thiago Silva is optimistic ahead of the new Serie A season after Milan opted against selling him to Paris Saint-Germain.
The French giants made a €47m move for the defender, but he insists that he’s content to stay at the Stadio Meazza.
“I never thought about leaving Milan, but it is only normal that offers from other clubs arrive,” he told the Gazzetta dello Sport.
“I spoke with director Leonardo and he showed me the project at Paris Saint-Germain.
“I also spoke to PSG boss Carlo Ancelotti, who told me that their objective was to become one of the greatest clubs in Europe.”
Milan did consider his sale, until President Silvio Berlusconi decided to keep the player ahead of the 2012-13 campaign.
“I held talks with Vice-President Adriano Galliani and thanked him for the great faith that he has in me,” he continued.
“My teammates such as Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Robinho, Antonio Cassano, Alexandre Pato and Mario Yepes, players I’m close to, also advised me to stay at Milan.
“I believe in the strength of Milan for the new season. There have been small changes and we’ll be even more familiar with each other.”
Silva was recently handed a new improved contract by the Diavolo.
AC Milan and Napoli discuss Dossena 7.7 ||webmaster
Napoli have held tentative talks with Milan about selling Andrea Dossena, claims the player’s agent Roberto La Florio.
The wing-back was the subject of discussion between the two clubs, but there is no indication whether either party wishes to take the prospective transfer any further.
La Florio revealed: “I spoke to Napoli, and they have had a chat with Milan, but Dossena’s contract lasts until 2014 so it is up to them.
“If Napoli decide against keeping him then a new scenario will open, especially considering we are talking about an experienced player who plays in the delicate position of left-back – and players of his type are difficult to find in this market.”
Dossena found his route to Napoli’s first-team blocked by Juan Camilo Zuniga last season so his future is up in the air.
Djamel Mesbah looks set to leave Milan this summer, with reports indicating that he is on the verge of joining Torino.
The 27-year-old left-back was a surprise mover in the January transfer market when the Rossoneri picked him up from relegation threatened Lecce.
Having struggled in his six months to assert a regular first-team position, the Algerian looks set to leave.
Reports this week have gathered pace that newly-promoted Torino are on the verge of a deal, and the latest rumours today suggest that they have reached an agreement with Milan to take 50 per cent of the player’s registration for a fee of €1.7m.
Alexander Merkel is looking forward to starting again with Genoa next season and does not see his return from Milan as a step backwards.
The creative midfielder originally joined the Grifone last summer on a co-ownership deal, but was sent back to the Rossoneri in January on loan.
However, injury disrupted his influence at San Siro and he finds himself back at Marassi, after Enrico Preziosi bought the remaining 50 per cent of his registration.
Whilst it is a move from last season’s runners-up to one of last season’s relegation-threatened sides, Merkel sees the move as a positive.
“I can understand why one would say such a thing, but I’m now more or less in the same situation as I was a year ago and, for me, this is not a step backwards,” he explained on his official website.
“It’s a very sensible decision. My debut with Milan was amazing, both in the Coppa Italia and League. Unfortunately, though, the injury put me back and I was unable to prove my abilities.
“Alas, these past few months have been without any real competitive action, which I have missed, and which is why to play as much as possible is right now the top priority for me.
“This is an opportunity that I can see more clearly with Genoa than Milan.
“Genoa is certainly an excellent team and they have great fans! That I can say based on my personal experience. In that city and in that club I found myself really happy.
“In this regard, I want to say one more thing - many have misinterpreted this decision. For me, it’s only about long-term objectives, it became clear that after my injury, no top club would want to sign me.”
Milan have insisted that Robinho will not leave the club and his Brazilian international teammate Julio Cesar will not arrive.
The striker has been paired with an exit this summer, while reports suggest that the Diavolo are keen on the Inter goalkeeper who looks set to leave the Nerazzurri.
“Our transfer market is closed,” club Vice-President Adriano Galliani told Sky Sport Italia. “We are covered in terms of numbers in all positions.
“There are no offers for Robinho. We have five strikers and if no one will leave then no one will arrive.
“I do keep informed about everything going on in Europe, but the truth is that our transfer market is closed.
“Julio Cesar? He is a great guy, a great player, a person whom I admire, but we have three goalkeepers and he will not arrive.
“We have Christian Abbiati, Marco Amelia and Gabriel – a young goalkeeper who has won the Under-20 World Cup and he will stay.”
Galliani also discussed the decision by FIFA to allow goal-line technology to be introduced to the game.
“Better late than never, as they say,” he added. “How long has it been happening in tennis? Football can not do without hawk-eye.
“Decisions on offside and other questionable situations of the game are always accepted, but when the ball enters the goal then we must intervene.
“I do not want you to forget the image of the Sulley Muntari goal that I always have on my phone.”
Muntari had a perfectly good goal against Juventus earlier this season not given because the officials missed the incident.
Alexandre Pato and Thiago Silva are two of four Serie A based players named in Brazil’s Olympic squad.
Striker Pato and centre-back Silva will represent Milan at the competition, while Inter stopper Juan Jesus and Fiorentina ‘keeper Neto will join them.
Silva, who will be 28 in September, is one of the three permitted over-23 players in the squad, the others being Porto striker Hulk and Real Madrid full-back Marcelo.
New Milan goalkeeper Gabriel is on the stand-by list should boss Mano Menezes be forced into a goalkeeping squad change because of injury.
Squad – Goalkeepers: Rafael Cabral (Santos), Neto (Fiorentina).
Defenders: Marcelo (Real Madrid), Rafael (Manchester United), Danilo (Porto), Alex Sandro (Porto), Thiago Silva (Milan), Juan (Inter), Bruno Uvini (Sao Paulo).
Midfielders: Romulo (Vasco), Ganso (Santos), Oscar (Internacional), Sandro (Spurs), Lucas (Sao Paulo)
Milan and Juventus could join forces to sign Brescia youngster Omar El Kaddouri, reports the Gazzetta dello Sport.
The 21-year-old midfielder, who has less than a year left on his Lombard contract, is available for transfer.
Brescia had agreed to sell him to Parma for €3.6m, but the player has so far rejected that option as he is aware of Juventus’ interest in him.
The Gazzetta is suggesting that Juventus, who don’t want to pay that much, could take the boy in a co-ownership deal which would see the Rossoneri sign the other 50 per cent of his agreement.
El Kaddouri is an attacking midfielder and a Belgium Under-21 international.
OFFICIAL: Nesta joins Montreal Impact 6.7 ||webmaster
Montreal Impact have confirmed that veteran Italian defender Alessandro Nesta has joined the club.
The 36-year-old, who left Milan this summer at the end of his contract, has agreed an 18-month deal with the Canadian club.
“I'm very happy to be here,” Nesta stated. “Despite some offers to continue my career in Europe, I was looking for a new challenge and wanted to play in the MLS.
“Upon visiting my friend Marco Di Vaio to see him play his first game with Montreal, I met great people in this club.
“I really liked what I saw and I was convinced Montreal was where I wanted to be.”
The centre-back, who was also being linked with New York Red Bulls, joins fellow Italians Di Vaio, Matteo Ferrari and Bernardo Corradi at the club.
“He already feels a part of the team,” Impact President Joey Saputo stated when asked about the deal.
“For a player who won the 2006 World Cup and played at the highest level for 20 years, he was extremely humble and it was easy to come to an agreement with him.”
The International Football Association Board have voted in favour of FIFA introducing goal-line technology into the game of football.
The IFAB, the body that determines the laws of the game, met today to discuss the implementation of two specific technologies to aid match officials in determining goal-line decisions.
A number of high-profile cases have hit the sport in recent years, including Frank Lampard’s incorrectly disallowed goal for England against Germany at the 2010 World Cup, Ukraine’s incorrectly disallowed goal against England during Euro 2012 and, at club level, Sulley Muntari’s incorrectly disallowed goal for Milan against Juventus last season.
FIFA are now in support of assisting their referees with technology and its ratification from the IFAB means that the governing body can now consider which of two systems - Hawk-Eye and GoalRef - to progress forwards with.
Technology could begin to be implemented in stadiums as soon as the start of the calendar year of 2013.
Milan representatives have reportedly held talks with former Barcelona Coach Pep Guardiola over the possibility of him becoming their next Coach.
A report in Spanish outlet AS alleges that officials from the Rossoneri recently held talks with the tactician’s own entourage to try to work out a way that the two parties could work together in the future.
Guardiola is currently taking a sabbatical from the game, after four years in charge of Barcelona, in which time he won 14 major trophies.
There was speculation towards the end of last season that the Rossoneri were also considering the future of Massimiliano Allegri, despite his only recently-signed new contract with the club.
Guardiola has also been linked with Chelsea and Bayern Munich in recent days.
Julio Cesar dropped from pre-season? 5.7 ||webmaster
Julio Cesar’s future at Inter looks to be in increasing doubt as reports indicate that he has been dropped from the club’s pre-season camp.
The Nerazzurri are set to publish a confirmed list of players called up to their pre-season retreat tomorrow, when it is due to begin in Pinzolo.
According to Sky Sport Italia reporter Gianluca Di Marzio, the Brazilian goalkeeper will not be included on that list, adding further weight the theory that he is on his way out of the club.
Inter are close to securing a deal for Udinese’s Samir Handanovic and, whilst Cesar intimated his desire to stay regardless, reports continue to link him to cross-town rivals Milan.
Sky are reporting that Cesar had been informed of Inter’s intention to replace him as long as a few months ago.
Siena President Massimo Mezzaroma has claimed that Roma have made the most movement so far for Mattia Destro.
The young striker impressed last term with Siena and, now co-owned by the Tuscans with Genoa, is attracting a lot of transfer talk this summer.
Inter, Juventus and Milan have all been linked, but Mezzaroma has revealed that only two clubs have asked about him so far and only one of those has made an offer.
“Roma wants the striker, but Preziosi is also interested,” confirmed the President to Radio Mana Mana Sport.
“If Mattia were to stay with Siena, with whom he is contracted with, it would not be a bad thing indeed!
“The offer to the club and the player will be decisive, for now the Giallorossi are the only ones to have approached us with a request and offer, whilst I know that Genoa have also made some contact.”
Mezzaroma offered an explanation as to why his club went back on a reported original agreement to send the player back to Genoa.
At the last moment possible, Siena exercised their right to co-own the player, when it was otherwise understood that he would be returning 100 per cent to the Grifone.
“We had found an agreement before arriving at the envelopes with Genoa, but then there was a power outage that forced us to exercise our right of redemption.
“If you lengthen the deadline, more often than not the business will fade.”
Yesterday, the player appealed to Siena and Genoa to come to an agreement that would allow him to sign for a big club.
Despite the player’s declaration that he wants to stay at Inter, Milan are reportedly stepping up their pursuit of goalkeeper Julio Cesar.
The Brazilian shot-stopper’s future in the blue half of the city was thrown in doubt yesterday when the Nerazzurri’s move for Udinese No 1 Samir Handanovic was confirmed.
Agreeing to pay a reported €11m to the Zebrette plus hand over 50 per cent of Davide Faraoni’s registration, Inter look set to complete a deal for the 27-year-old today, when it is expected that the Slovenian will arrive to undergo a medical and formalise contract negotiations.
Cesar was initially paired with a surprise move to cross-town rivals early yesterday in response to the first whispers of Handanovic’s deal, but ceremoniously declared last night that he intends to stay with Inter to fight for his place.
However, the Corriere dello Sport believe that Cesar, who has spent the past seven seasons on the books at Inter, has already held initial talks with the Rossoneri.
Adriano Galliani is believed to have held discussions on a possible contract for the ‘keeper either with the player himself or one of his close representatives.
In the market for a replacement for Marco Amelia and Christian Abbiati, Milan are thought to be hoping for a similar situation to that which Juventus benefited from when signing Lucio this week - that Inter will rescind Cesar’s contract, removing the need for a transfer fee for the Diavolo and their tight budget.
Mattia Destro insists there is no problem between Genoa and Siena, but still feels inclined to public appeal to them to sell him to a big club this summer.
The striker, who spent last term on loan with Siena, impressed enough to attract a list of admirers that include Inter, Milan, Juventus and Roma.
Genoa believed that Siena would send him back to them this summer, but at the last moment the Tuscans excerisced their right in the original agreement to purchase 50 per cent of his contract.
It has reportedly hit relations between the two clubs and delayed Destro’s otherwise expected move elsewhere.
However, the player himself, who begins pre-season with Siena, insists that a move is still likely and very possible for his two owners to agree upon.
“I hope that, knowing Mezzaroma and Preziosi, will have the good sense to agree and give me the chance to go and play for a big team like the ones that have asked for me.
“I hope that we can reach an agreement. Honestly, the relationship is fine between the two clubs. I think there are no problems with this particular situation.
“Where do I prefer to go? Definitely I can say that I have motivation and the utmost confidence to compete on a par with all other attackers.
“Then, it’s up to me to rightly prove whether or not I am ready to do so, and I know that I can do so.”
Julio Cesar has rubbished rumours of a departure to Milan and insisted that Samir Handanovic arrives at Inter as his competition, not his replacement.
The experienced shot-stopper is the subject of strong speculation, with reports set to intensify as to his departure, in light of Inter’s movement for Udinese goalkeeper Handanovic.
The Slovenian is set to arrive to formalise a €11m-plus-player transfer tomorrow, but Cesar is insistent that it does not signal the end of his Nerazzurro career.
“Handanovic is a good ‘keeper, this would be best for us…we would have three great goalkeepers,” he calmly told Sky Sport 24 on Wednesday evening.
“I have a contract until 2014, and am an employee of Inter’s. I think I will stay and play for my position, Inter have a great squad and a great way of playing.
“The Coach will decide who takes to the field, there will be enough respect between us all.
“If he arrives at Inter it is because he is good.”
The Brazilian was asked if a move to rivals Milan would be an option for him.
“There is absolutely nothing in those rumours, everyone talks about me but there’s nothing. Officially there is nothing.
“Maicon and Lucio? I’m losing all my Brazilian friends, I hope that Lucio does well though. Juventus have made a fantastic move.”
Transfer target to a number of clubs in Serie A this summer, Mattia Destro will begin pre-season with Siena, confirms their President.
The striker, now co-owned between the Tuscans and Genoa, has been the subject of numerous transfer links in anticpation of a summer switch, having impressed with Siena last term in Serie A.
However, even with Inter, Roma, Milan and Juventus forming an orderly queue, the striker is set to begin pre-season work with Siena.
“The player is half ours, he will be called up for the ritiro with Siena and only then will we see if there are any developments,” Massimo Mezzaroma declared to reporters outside the Lega Serie A offices this afternoon.
“We have no favoured clubs in talks for Destro, this is a market, and how one conducts business is to sell the best fruit at the best price.
“Today, the boy is thinking about getting in shape for the start of the season. Then, wherever he will play, he will play.
“He owes so much to the work done last year and he has much more to give, we will see, certainly.
“If the right offer does not come in then he will stay with us, but, he is a very important player, not just for Siena but for Italian football.
“And, I think that it is necessary that for his development he takes to a higher level.”
Galliani: AC Milan market is closed 4.7 ||webmaster
Milan Vice-President Adriano Galliani has suggested that his club’s transfer activity for the summer has already come to an end.
“Our transfer market has closed,” the official stated on Wednesday when asked about the club’s immediate plans.
“We have already made our signing. The decision to keep Thiago Silva was our big move and it closed our market.”
There were suggestions that the Diavolo were still looking for a defensive central midfielder, but that may no longer be the case.
“There will be no changes in midfield,” continued Galliani. “We have nine players in there and we are complete.
“We are not missing a Van Bommel type player as we have Riccardo Montolivo after his arrival from Fiorentina. We also have Massimo Ambrosini who can play in that role.”
Galliani did, however, concede that the club could consider selling left-back Djamel Mesbah to newly promoted Torino.
“We don’t have an intention to sell anyone, but we’ll have to see about Mesbah,” he continued. “Will Angelo Ogbonna be a part of the Mesbah deal? No, not at all.
“If we do sell someone then it won’t be one of our high profile players.”
Galliani, who also insisted that no offers had been made to buy the club, added that Zlatan Ibrahimovic would be staying and Kevin Prince Boateng will not be getting a new deal.
“Ibra still has two years to run on his contract and will stay. Boateng? They are private matters. Anyway, all of our players have very high wages so nobody will be get an increase in salary.”
Montreal Impact have admitted that they are in talks with Alessandro Nesta – but a deal has yet to be done.
The 36-year-old is available on a free transfer after he left Milan at the end of his San Siro contract this summer.
“The opportunity to have a guy like Nesta on your team would be a great one and we’d be in a very fortunate position to be able to come to terms with him,” said Impact boss Jesse Marsch.
“I’m not sure where it’s all going to go as it’s complicated. The good part is it’s fair to say that Alessandro wants to be here.
“So we’re going to figure out what that means and deal with the League and do what we can and see if we can make this happen.”
Impact have a strong Italian contingent given the presence of Matteo Ferrari, Bernardo Corradi and Marco Di Vaio in their ranks.
Julio Cesar could be offered the chance to stay in Italy by Milan if their local rivals Inter decide to ditch him this summer, according to Sportsmediaset.
The Brazilian goalkeeper looks likely to have his contract cancelled by Inter, who want to replace their oldest, highest paid players.
He is thought to have held a meeting yesterday with sporting director Marco Branca and Coach Andrea Stramaccioni.
If Julio Cesar becomes a free agent, Milan could offer him a deal because it is thought that the player doesn’t want to leave the city. Any possible deal would be similar to Lucio joining Juventus when Inter terminated his agreement last week.
The Nerazzurri are keen to release Julio Cesar to pave the way for Udinese ‘keeper Samir Handanovic to replace him. The Slovenian has already agreed a contract, but the transfer cannot happen until Inter agree a fee with Udinese.
He is valued at €14m by Udinese, but Inter hope to agree a part-exchange deal including youngster Marco Faraoni.
Torino discuss Mesbah, Gillet, Brighi 4.7 ||webmaster
The son of Milan President Silvio Berlusconi has said he “would love to sign Andy Carroll” for a new, younger team.
The Rossoneri have released veterans such as Alessandro Nesta, Gennaro Gattuso, Clarence Seedorf, Pippo Inzaghi, Gianluca Zambrotta and Mark Van Bommel, aiming to lower the average age of the squad.
“This is another Milan, a younger Milan, and it’s right every now and then to change and start a new project,” said Piersilvio Berlusconi in the Corriere dello Sport.
“Who would I like to see at Milan? Well it’s too obvious to say Andres Iniesta, so let’s just say I was impressed with the physicality of England striker Carroll. I would love to sign him.”
Meanwhile, the club has snapped up Riccardo Montolivo on a free transfer from Fiorentina and resisted the PSG millions for Thiago Silva.
“Montolivo is a player with character and I like him. Keeping Thiago Silva at this moment of financial crisis in Italy shows an incredible passion for football.
“Zlatan Ibrahimovic is staying and, like all artists, must be accepted for who he is.”
Lazio made an attempt to re-sign centre-back Alessandro Nesta from Milan a year ago, revealed sporting director Igli Tare today.
Nesta is out of contract this summer and, having confirmed his departure from Milan, is currently reported to be in negotiations with Canadian outfit Montreal Impact over a possible switch to the MLS.
Due to the Rossoneri’s penchant for negotiating one-year rolling contracts with their more senior stars, Nesta was also free to talk to clubs last summer and, according to Tare, he did speak to Lazio, albeit briefly.
“Last year we tried to convince Alessandro Nesta to return to Lazio, but for family reasons he chose not to accept, because he wanted to continue living in Milan,” Tare admitted to reporters today.
“I have heard that Lazio rejected the possibility of ever taking back Nesta, but this is not true.
“All people who are a part of Lazio’s history are always welcome. Unfortunately, there wasn’t the possibility and we had to accept the situation as it was.”
Nesta came through the youth ranks at the capital club, before spending nine years in the first team.
Tare also responded to questions on the latest with Turkish striker Burak Yilmaz, who has been involved in on-off links to the Aquile this summer.
“Certainly, Lazio have done everything possible, we have spoken with the player and his club. Now, let’s see if we can finalise the deal or not.
“It takes time, even if the Press always has a need for news. None of the names matched to us in midfield are true reports.”
Adriano Galliani has again issued a firm denial that Zlatan Ibrahimovic will be leaving Milan, and also rules the club out of the race for Matias Silvestre.
Both players have been paired in recent weeks with respective transfers in and out of the San Siro outfit, but Vice-President Galliani has again looked to set the record straight.
Yesterday, Ibra’s agent cagily suggested that the player’s future with the Rossoneri lay in their hands.
“Ibrahimovic will definitely remain a Milan player, there is no problem with him,” Galliani declared on Monday evening to Sky.
“We’re not interested in Silvestre because we have Thiago Silva. With Silva we have found an agreement that satisfies both parties.
“I’m not worried that others in the squad will now start asking for improved contracts too.”
AC Milan sign 14 years old Hachim Mastour 2.7 ||webmaster
Thiago Silva has been handed a new improved contract by Milan after Paris Saint-Germain attempted to sign him earlier this summer.
The club confirmed this afternoon that the player has been given a fresh financial package, although no further details were released. It is believed that he will now earn €6m a term.
The French giants made Milan an offer of close to €50m for the Brazilian stopper last month, as well as reportedly offering the centre-back a five-year deal worth €7.5m a campaign.
Milan opted against sacrificing the South American and his agent then subsequently asked for an increase in salary at San Siro.
In May 2011, the Brazilian international renewed his contract until June 2016.
Ex-Milan star Clarence Seedorf has officially signed a two-year contract with Brazilian club Botafogo.
The Dutchman had been a free agent since the Rossoneri allowed his contract to expire this summer.
The 36-year-old insisted he was ready to continue his playing career and had been linked with clubs in the Premier League, MLS, Dubai and China.
“Seedorf has signed a deal for two years with Botafogo. It is the biggest contract for a foreigner made by a Brazilian football club,” read a statement from the Rio de Janeiro outfit.
He has links with Brazil, as he already has a home in the country and spends much of his vacation there.
