AC Milan look set to sign Axel Witsel from Standard Liege with the two clubs locked in negotiations.
Milan chief Adriano Galliani has confirmed that the Serie A champions have opened talks. A deal for the Belgium international could be completed this week.
"In the last days there has been a contact with Standard Liege's officials for Axel Witsel," Galliani told Sky Italia.
Witsel had already stated he would leave the club this season, and a move to Serie A is now within touching distance.
"I need to make a move abroad in order to improve," he told Sporza. "You can see in training with [Vincent] Kompany and [Daniel] van Buyten. They are sharper in the duels and they always behave like a professional.
"My future? I am happy that I can go on holiday. Do I know something about Milan? No and even if that was the case, I would not say so."
Standard Liege vice-president Luciano D'Onofrio confirmed: "I spoke with the Milan hierarchy. We had a chat for a few hours yesterday."