[arivanjj]

Italian giants Milan have admitted that they are in talks over a proposed swoop for Real Madrid’s Ronaldo.

Rossoneri Vice-President Adriano Galliani confirmed the club’s interest in the player after their 2-1 win at Red Star Belgrade ensured Champions League qualification.

“Ronaldo is available and now it’s a matter between Milan and Real Madrid,” commented the official.

“We have officially asked for the player,” he added. “Now we will now wait and see what will happen.

“We will be pleased if a deal can be completed, but if that were not the case then we will be happy with the players we have.”

Talks are set to begin as soon as today and Real Madrid maestro Ramon Calderon is ready to do business.

"I know Milan have already talked to the player and I don't think that is right, but we are still prepared to receive representatives from any friendly club," Calderon told reporters.

Real had insisted they are not interested in selling the 30-year-old, but may consider the option if Milan were to offer Brazil midfielder Kaka in exchange – something which seems highly unlikely.

"We don't want to get rid of Ronaldo, but we are prepared to negotiate," added the Merengues’ chief.

"If Ronaldo wants to leave we'll have to look for a solution, we don't want money, we want something else,” referring to Kaka.

Calderon had promised to buy the Brazilian starlet during his election campaign in June much to Milan’s disgust.

Real Coach Fabio Capello has also reiterated his desire to see Kaka at his disposal, although aware of the difficulty in striking a deal.

"Kaka is one of those rare players who can make the difference and for us he is a priority, but if he isn’t for sale, we cannot buy him,” said Capello.

As to Ronaldo, Capello stressed the fact that he only needs motivated players on his side.

"Ronaldo is a great player, the fact that he is courted by many teams means that he is talented, but a player should stay only if he is happy to do so,” stated Don Fabio.

“If that is not the case, then he must speak out in order for the club to examine the situation and consider the options.”

The Brazilian, who is still recovering from knee surgery he underwent following the World Cup, will not play in Real Madrid’s first match of the season against Villarreal on Sunday


source: Football Italia

This post has been edited by arivanjj: Aug 23 2006, 09:19 AM