The agent of AC Milan midfielder Franck Kessie has suggested that his client will leave San Siro on a free transfer unless the Italian club significantly improve their contract offer.

Kessie's current deal is due to expire next June, and a number of clubs, including Manchester United and Barcelona, are said to be determined to sign the Ivory Coast international.

The 24-year-old's agent George Atangana has now revealed that Milan's offer is some way short of their salary expectations, which could lead to the midfielder leaving on a free.

"An important player needs a contract that is up to his standards. There was a formal offer from the club and a request from the agent, but we are talking about figures a long way off what you are referring to [£6.5m a year]," Atangana told Calciomercato.

"For too long people have been saying things in the wrong way. I am sorry for those who read these stories and believe them to be true."

Kessie - also linked with Chelsea, Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain - has scored 30 goals and registered 15 assists in 191 appearances for Milan in all competitions.