AC Milan began talks with Chelsea on Saturday to sign Cesc Fabregas in January, reports Tuttosport.

The midfielder does not appear to be part of Antonio Conte’s plans at Stamford Bridge and the Rossoneri are ready to swoop.

Milan is in the process of being bought by a wealthy Chinese conglomerate that could fund an operation.

Directors Marco Fassone and Massimiliano Mirabelli were reportedly at Chelsea to discuss Fabregas’ situation, with the club considering him a potential replacement for the injured Riccardo Montolivo.