Ambrosini extends Milan deal

The Italian international's future has been the subject of intense debate with Ambrosini unhappy at his lack of first team chances.

Ambrosini failed to break into Carlo Ancelotti's side last season and was thought to be considering his future.

Real Madrid had been linked with the defensive midfielder, but Ambrosini has pledged his future to the Rossoneri by agreeing a deal which will keep him at the Giuseppe Meazza until 2006.

Meanwhile, Milan star Andrei Shevchenko is gearing himself up for the new season and he is expecting another tough season.

"Juve, Inter and Roma: in Italy the opponents are still the same", Shevchenko told the club's official website.

"I'm sorry for Lazio, I know they have a few difficulties. Our opponents are set to become stronger even if during the holidays I haven't seen market events."

Shevchenko backed the club's signing of Jaap Stam from Lazio and admitted he would also like to see reported transfer target Hernan Crespo arrive from Chelsea.

"As for Stam as I've already said he's a great player," added Shevchenko.

"Crespo's possible arrival ? I have the feeling that Milan could make a big move, but we can only talk about Stam because he has been already announced, until there are certain and official news my thought is only to go to Milanello tomorrow [Thursday] and restart contacts with the group."