Milan rule out Shevchenko exit

(GETTY IMAGES)

AC Milan have dismissed reports that Andriy Shevchenko is poised to join Real Madrid.

The Ukraine striker was linked with a move to the Bernabeu as cover for Real's injured striker Ruud van Nistelrooy.

But vice-president Adriano Galliani claims Shevchenko will remain with Milan despite his slow start to life back in Serie A.

The 31-year-old forward has struggled to find the net in eight league and UEFA Cup appearances since rejoining the Rossoneri on loan from Chelsea in August.

"Technically the operation wouldn't be impossible as you can have two transfers in one season," said Galliani.

"However, Shevchenko will not be leaving. He is untouchable and now he will be playing for us."

Former Internazionale boss Roberto Mancini has been named the Serie A coach of the year for last season.

Mancini, 43, was dumped by Inter in favour of Jose Mourinho during the summer despite leading the club to three straight Serie A titles.

The former Italy forward has yet to return to work following his dismissal but has been named the winner of the Panchina D'Oro award for the 2007-08 campaign.

The accolade - which translates as the 'Golden Bench' award - was won in each of the past two seasons by Fiorentina coach Cesare Prandelli.

"I want to thank all the coaches that have voted for me," said Mancini. "I also want to thank the Inter players who made it possible."

Meanwhile, Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini has dismissed reports which suggested he was keen to bring unsettled Internazionale striker Adriano to the Stadio Renzo Barbera.

The controversial Brazil striker has been dropped from the Inter squad in recent weeks following reports of a fall-out with coach Jose Mourinho.

Adriano has been linked with a loan move to Palermo in January, but Zamparini claims his club can't afford to sign the big-earning striker.

"Obviously I would sign him, who wouldn't want him?" he said. "However, his wage is too high, much higher than we have at Palermo."