AC Milan manager Stefano Pioli has affirmed that he wants to sign Fikayo Tomori on a permanent deal from Chelsea.

The centre-back struggled for regular game time in West London earlier in the season, but he has played a starring role in the Rossoneri's defence since joining on loan in January.

Tomori played the full 90 minutes against Juventus on Sunday - scoring one goal and keeping a clean sheet in a 3-0 success - and Pioli has confirmed his desire to buy the Chelsea loanee this summer.

Speaking to reporters, Pioli said: "We want to buy Tomori on a permanent deal from Chelsea. Our intention is clear and also Fikayo's decision (staying at Milan). We'll see what happens at the end of the season."

AC Milan are understood to have the option to buy Tomori for a fee of £25m when his loan deal expires in June, and Chelsea are thought to be expecting bids for the defender when the transfer window reopens.

Tomori has made 19 appearances in all competitions for Pioli's side since arriving at San Siro, and his deal with Chelsea does not expire until the summer of 2024. body check tags ::