Papadopoulos agent cools talk

Kyriakos Papadopoulos: Schalke defender has been linked with AC Milan this summer

The agent of Schalke defender Kyriakos Papadopoulos claims a move to AC Milan would be 'very difficult' amid speculation linking him with the Serie A giants.

The Rossoneri are thought to be keen on the Greece international as a replacement for Thiago Silva, who has departed the San Siro for Paris St Germain.

The 20-year-old centre-back, who has also been linked with Manchester United this summer, has three years remaining on his deal with Schalke.

Papadopoulos has established himself as a key player at the Bundesliga club since arriving from Olympiakos in 2010 and his agent, Paul Koutsoliakos, doubts whether an Italian move would be possible.

He told calciomercato.com: "AC Milan interested in my client? There is much speculation about the guy these days.

"Papadopoulos has another three years on his contract with Schalke, a club where he is very good, so a transfer to Italy would be very difficult.

"Whoever wants him would first have to speak with Schalke."

• Bundesliga Winner 12/13 Win Outright: Schalke 04 125/1