Serie A side AC Milan have recently been turning the heat up on Russian Premier League side CSKA Moscow over their ongoing pursuit of Japanese international Keisuke Honda.
The 27-year old’s contract with CSKA expires at the end of December, and no talks of an extension are undergoing between the midfielder and his side.
AC Milan have been enquiring about Honda for a number of months, but have been rebuffed with an unrealistic asking price. However, the ball is very much in the Italian side’s court, as they have revealed they will take Honda on a free if the two sides cannot agree on a price for the midfielder.
‘The player wants to join Milan but we can’t overspend as he will be a free agent in four months. We’ll keep trying to sign him until we have to name our Champions League squad, then we’ll abandon the chase. We have made an offer and if they decrease their expectations then Honda will arrive at Milan. Let’s hope so.’ – AC Milan CEO Adriano Galliani.
Last season, Honda scored seven goals in 23 league games. He was also one of the shining stars at the 2013 Confederations Cup for Japan too.
AC Milan manager Massimiliano Allegri has long-admired the Japanese midfielder, and alongside the club’s director has promised the fans they will procure the 27-year old.
‘The gift to the fans is Honda – we will only (sign) Honda at this moment in time’
Reports from a number of Italian publications had previously alleged Honda was set to sign for the Serie A side as personal terms had been agreed upon days ago, but until AC Milan and CSKA Moscow can agree on a fee, this protracted transfer could go on and on.
CSKA fans will be furious if their star midfielder is allowed to leave on a free transfer in January, so they are keen to be handsomely compensated while he still has some value.
Add Sportslens to your Google News Feed!
