AC Milan have agreed a deal with Genoa for Italian Under-21 midfielder Stephan El Shaarawy.
Under-21 star on his way to San Siro
AC Milan have agreed a deal with Genoa for Italian Under-21 midfielder Stephan El Shaarawy.
The 18-year-old spent last season in Serie B on-loan at Padova, who he helped to the play-off final.
Milan have now made their move for the youngster, who is leaving Genoa after making just three appearances for the Grifone.
The deal is worth €7.5million plus half of German midfielder Alexander Merkel, who will move to Genoa - but he intends on moving back to the San Siro.
"I go to Genoa to gain experience, but will return to Milan stronger than before," said Merkel in confirming the deal.
El Shaarawy said: "I like AC Milan because I have been a fan of theirs since I was a child," he told
Sky Sport 24.
"My idol is Kaka and he has always inspired me. It would be a dream come true to be part of a team like AC Milan."
