Milan have joined the race to sign Cagliari midfielder Nicolo Barella and Rossoneri sporting director Leonardo has already made contract with the Rossoblu to declare their interest according to a report from Italian broadcaster Sky Sport.

Cagliari however have zero intention of letting Barella leave the club during this transfer window and wish to keep him around at least until the Summer.

Barella, who is under contract with the Sardinian club through to the end of the 2021/22 season, has attracted interest from Inter and Napoli in recent months among others and it is understood that he will cost at least €40 million but with the wealth of interest in his services that price is only likely to increase as time passes.

The 21-year-old Italian international has been a mainstay in the Rossoblu team this season having made 20 appearances across all competitions where he has scored one goal in 1773 minutes of action.