Pirlo not leaving Milan

ANDREA PIRLO will not be leaving Milan, despite rumours that Rivaldo's arrival had spelled the end of his tenure.

Pirlo's £10 million move from Internazionale did not bring the first team football that had precipitated his need to leave the nerazzurri, but the club has always insisted that the player is part of their plans.

Even the arrival of Rivaldo, who favours a similar position to Pirlo, has not changed the club's opinion.

"Milan has not negotiated with anyone over Pirlo," said club supremo Adriano Galliani.

"He is absolutely not for sale".

The player himself is keen to push into the first team, but sees the signing of Rivaldo as a boon.

"The Brazilian's arrival adds even more versatility to the side," said Pirlo. "I cannot wait to play alongside him."

Italian reports had claimed both Fulham and Atletico Madrid were looking to sign the talented Under-21 starlet.