Milan wanted Henry

Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani claims they tried to sign Thierry Henry.

Henry ended months of speculation over his future by signing a new deal with Arsenal in May.

The Frenchman had been linked with Barcelona, but Galliani claims he made his move to sign Henry after Arsenal's UEFA Champions League defeat to Barcelona.

Galliani is a big fan of Henry and admitted the French ace would have joined the club if he had decided to leave Arsenal.

"The dream in our hearts was Henry, who would have joined us had he not decided to remain at Arsenal," said Galliani.

"I wanted him because I rated him as a player but now I appreciate him much more from a human point of view."

Galliani also disclosed that Milan were unlikely to sign Chelsea defender William Gallas.

Gallas is thought to be looking to leave Chelsea with Milan credited with an interest in the versatile defender.

The Frenchman has one-year to run on his contract at Stamford Bridge and Galliani revealed Chelsea have told him that they plan to keep Gallas.

"Gallas still has one year left on his contract with the English club and their executives have told us that they intend him to respect his contract," added Galliani.

"If he doesn't renew his contract, he will be free to evaluate his future."