AC Milan full-back Ignazio Abate looks to be on the verge of signing for Russian Premier League side Zenit St. Petersburg.
Reports today suggest that the Rossoneri have accepted a proposal from the Russians, and Abate is now discussing personal terms with the club.
Abate’s agent, Claudio Pasqualin, had rejected the notion that the Italian international would be leaving Milan yesterday; however signalled that the situation could change if Zenit made an improved offer.
There is already a minor Italian prescence in Petersburg, and if he does complete the move, Abate would join fellow countrymen Domenico Criscito and coach Luciano Spalletti in Russia.
The income generated from Abate’s departure should help free-up enough money for Milan to complete a deal for Manchester City’s Mario Balotelli.
The full-back has been a key component of the Milan line-up since 2009, and has represented the club 100 times in Serie A.
Abate has represented Italy on seven occasions, which include three starts at last summer’s European Championships.
