AC Milan El Shaarawy denies Man City link

AC Milan striker Stephan El Shaarawy denied reports suggesting he may be willing to join Manchester City in the near future, by saying he is determined to stay at San Siro.

The 20-year-old Italian made an impressive breakthrough in his development this season, scoring 16 Serie A goals in 37 appearances this season and helping his side to reach Champions League qualification. El Shaarawy has been rewarded for his outstanding performances with the first cap for the senior national team.

The recent speculations suggested the Pharao could be interested in making a big-money switch to Etihad stadium in summer transfer window. However El Shaarawy admitted he is flattered by interest shown in him, but has no plans of leaving Milan in the near future. He said: “I don’t think I will leave Milan. If City really wants me, it flatters me. But I want to stay here at AC Milan. I always felt total confidence from all: the club, coach [Massimiliano] Allegri and team-mates. It’s also thanks to them that I am in the Italian national team.”