Pastore eyes long-term future at Milan

Posted Wednesday, December 19, 2012 by ESPN

Paris St Germain midfielder Javier Pastore has opened the door to a possible move to Serie A club AC Milan after criticising the French media.

The 23-year-old playmaker joined PSG for an estimated fee of 38million euros in 2011 but has struggled to hold down a starting berth in Ligue 1 this season.

Despite recently rejecting the overtures of both Milan and city rivals Inter, and denying speculation linking him with a return to Italy, the Argentinian told Italian weekly magazine Chi he expects to end up at the San Siro in the future.

"Sooner or later, I will play for the Rossoneri," he said. "I have a wonderful relationship with (vice-president) Adriano Galliani.

"We will have lunch together away from prying eyes when we next meet up in Milan.
"Milan is a magical club. That's how I feel about it."

Pastore's comments are unlikely to ingratiate him with PSG boss Carlo Ancelotti or sporting director Leonardo, who are bidding to lead an expensively-assembled side to a first French title in 18 years.

Pastore added: "I will win something with PSG first, then I'll go. Everyone in Paris has faith in me from the president to the coach, but something is wrong.

"The media is hostile - especially with foreigners. They always blame us and protect their fellow countrymen.

"With the French media cheering for the French players it has been very difficult for me to settle down. In Italy it is a different story.

"There are people there who help you and give you love."

The midfielder is not so keen on lining up alongside Milan's other mooted transfer target, Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli.

"Playing with Balotelli? He causes too much trouble," Pastore added.