Maldini agrees new deal

The 36-year-old's current contract expires in the summer of 2005, but he has the option to extend it for another year.

Maldini, who has been at Milan for over 20-years, admitted he expects to prolong his stay at the European champions.

"My contract expires in 2005," said Maldini. 

"I still haven't signed a new deal but an agreement is in place which will keep me here until 2006."

The legendary defender also refused to rule out a possible return to the Italy national team.

Maldini quit international football following the 2002 World Cup, but there have been calls for him to return for this summer's Euro 2004 finals.

It has been suggested that Maldini's decision to return to international football could be blocked by other players after a reported row with Roma's Francesco Totti, but Maldini insists he has no problems with any players.

"If I changed my mind then I would talk to boss Giovanni Trapattoni directly and not via the media," added Maldini.

"I've never had any trouble with anybody and that includes Francesco Totti."