[Portman]

Rijkaard set for Milan? 

Monday 12 March, 2007 ::: channel4.com

Frank Rijkaard could leave Barcelona for Milan at the end of the season, according to reports in Italy.

The Dutch tactician is allegedly looking for a house in Milan, fuelling speculation that he might replace Carlo Ancelotti on the San Siro bench.

Rijkaard is contracted to the Blaugrana until 2008, but his deal has a clause which would allow him to leave the Nou Camp one year in advance.

The defeat in Sunday’s Derby della Madonnina has also increased the chances of seeing Ancelotti end his relationship with the Via Turati outfit in the summer.

“I believe my future here depends on the results I will obtain,” admitted the Rossoneri Coach.

“I would like to stay here for many years, but I know how things go in football,” added the tactician, who joined Milan in 2001.

It is believed that much will depend on Milan’s future in the Champions League, as well as their qualification for next season’s competition.

Yesterday’s defeat left the Diavoli six-points shy of the top four and only a victory in the Athens Final in May might convince the Rossoneri management to extend the Coach’s stay.

Rijkaard had already been linked with the Via Turati club, as he is allegedly tired of the tension between himself and the dressing room.

If the news were to be confirmed, reports suggest that Ancelotti might move in the opposite direction to La Liga, with Real Madrid allegedly interested in the Coach’s services.