AC Milan open talks for Udinese defender

AC Milan have begun negotiations for Udinese centre-back Mehdi Benatia according to reports in Italy.

Vice-president Adriano Galliani alluded to the possibility of a defensive signing and has explored a variety of options, with the Moroccan topping his wishlist.

Corriere dello Sport states that the Rossoneri are keen on adding Benatia due to his familiarity with the Serie A, having played in the league since his move from Clermont in 2010.

The Diavolo recently saw possible signing Dedè move to Cruzeiro, while finding difficulties in talks for Torino’s Angelo Ogbonna and Porto’s Eliaquim Mangala due to high transfer feees.

To help proceedings Milan could include several youth players in a deal to bring the Moroccan international to the club.

Follow Louis Gibberd-Thomas on Twitter: @mercutio156