Transfer news: Nigel de Jong ready to sign new deal at AC Milan

Nigel de Jong admits to feeling flattered by summer interest in his services, but says he is planning to pen a contract extension at AC Milan.

With Louis van Gaal having taken over the managerial reins at Manchester United, several of those he worked with as head of the Dutch national side were heavily linked with moves to Old Trafford.

Daley Blind did complete a switch from Ajax, but reported interest in the likes of De Jong produced no formal approach.

The former Manchester City midfielder is ‘proud’ to have generated such talk, with his efforts being recognised by a coach at the top of his game.

De Jong told Il Giornale: “If many people like him (Van Gaal) respect me and recognise what I am doing, then I can only be proud.”

The 29-year-old has, however, reiterated that he is happy in Italy and would welcome the opportunity to sign a new long-term deal at the San Siro.

He added: “I want to stay at Milan and I repeat that I want to end my career here.

“Milan is a club with a history and an extraordinary tradition – if they cannot finish first then they must always fight to be in the top three.

“I know it is tough, I know that there are many teams as strong and organised as we are, but we have to try.

“At what point will there be a new contract? I know that the club has contacted my agent and there is an appointment for next week.”