Tevez ideal replacement for Cassano, says Costacurta

Tevez has been linked with a move away from City in January (Getty Images)

Former AC Milan defender Alessandro Costacurta believes Manchester City striker Carlos Tevez would be the ideal replacement for Antonio Cassano.

The Rossoneri are looking to strengthen their attacking line in the winter transfer window, with Italy forward Cassano ruled out indefinitely after undergoing a heart procedure earlier this month.

"Tevez is perfect to replace Cassano," Costacurta told http://www.tuttomercatoweb.it.

"He is the ideal striker for Milan but he will have to be managed properly from a character standpoint.

"I have the impression that he could create some problems if he is left on the bench and that will happen at Milan, considering the strikers in the team."

Tevez has been linked with a move away from City in January after his latest fall-out with the club.

The Argentina international was found guilty of five breaches of contract after refusing to warm up during the 2-0 Champions League defeat at Bayern Munich in September.

He then returned to his homeland earlier this month without City's permission and is yet to report back to training.

Tevez is under contract with City until June 2014.

PA