AC Milan striker Stephan El Shaarawy 'flattered' by Manchester City speculation

The Italy international has been linked with a move to the Etihad

Stephan El Shaarawy (Getty Images)

AC Milan striker Stephan El Shaarawy is flattered by reports linking him to Manchester City but insists he is committed to the Serie A club.

Media reports have linked the Barclays Premier League runners-up with a summer approach for the 20-year-old Italy international, who scored 18 goals in all competitions for the Rossoneri in the 2012-13 season.

February saw El Shaarawy sign a contract extension tying him to the San Siro outfit until 2018 and he cannot imagine leaving Italy in the near future.

When asked about potential interest from City, he told La Repubblica: "I've not thought about it, I really don't think I'll leave Milan.

"If it's true that City want me then that's flattering, but I'm really happy at this big club and feel a connection to the place."

City are reported to have prepared a swap deal involving Argentinian striker Carlos Tevez for the left-footed forward, who joined Milan from Genoa in 2011.

El Sharaawy added: "Look, I feel like everyone at Milan has confidence in me. The club does, (head coach Massimiliano) Allegri, who let me loose and encouraged me, does and so do my team-mates.

"Even when I've not managed to score goals they've appreciated my hard work. I'm also in the national team and I owe that to them."

PA