THE Italian club that approached Saints about Nicola Cortese has been identified as AC Milan.

As reported by The Guardian the Serie A giants have inquired about the St Mary's chairman joining their board.

Mr Cortese has told the Daily Echo in the past of his 'excellent contacts' with a number of Serie A sides, including AC Milan.

It was these contacts that helped Saints sign Papa Waigo on loan in the summer from Fiorentina.

Southampton FC today said Mr Cortese had no intention of leaving St Mary's.

Speculation surrounding the story was initially reported on BBC Radio Solent yesterday morning.

Mr Cortese's subsequent interview was broadcast on the same station, which has a commercial deal with the club, today.