Milan rule out Pirlo sale

05 August 2009 15:27
AC Milan owner Silvio Berlusconi has reiterated his intention to keep Andrea Pirlo at the club. The Italy international continues to be linked with a move to Chelsea, with the saga having dragged on all summer. Milan have refuted suggestions they could be prepared to sell at regular intervals throughout the transfer window, but the speculation refuses to go away. Berlusconi has now moved to confirm that Pirlo is not for sale and will not be parted with at any price. He admits that he expects the World Cup winner to see out his career with Milan, while he has also revealed that the Rossoneri remain in the market for a new striker. "Andrea Pirlo will remain with us," said Berlusconi. "He is not on the market and he will stay with us. I expect him to end his career at Milan." He added: "It is well known that Chelsea have made an approach, with a big offer put on the table. "But we have spoken with the player and we have decided to satisfy (coach) Leonardo's request to keep him here. "The club is now focused on finding a new forward, with Mr (Adriano) Galliani working hard on targets. "Leonardo has asked for a new arrival and he has expressed an interest in a few names we put to him." Pirlo admitted his delight at Milan's stance and said: "Today is a very good day. "I am very happy to be able to finish my career here. "This is thanks to the president Silvio Berlusconi, to Adriano Galliani and to Leonardo who, by taking me off the market, have given me the possibility to end my career here. "When they told me the news I was very happy, finally the saga of this summer is over and we can continue the adventure in Rossonero. "I had the possibility of changing teams and adventure but at the end in mutual agreement, the club and I, decided to continue and we are all happier. "It was a turbulent summer with many doubts but at the end, in my family, we are all happier to remain in Milan."

Source: SKY_Sports