AC Milan have been dealt a boost in their efforts to sign Slovenian international Josip Ilicic from recently-relegated Palermo.

The 25-year-old midfielder is in high demand this summer, with Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur also believed to be tracking him.

Agent Amir Ruznic confirmed that his client will be leaving the Stadio Renzo Barbera, but added that he would prefer to stay in Serie A.

"He will certainly leave Palermo," Ruznic told SpazioMilan. "He is wanted by several different sides, Italian and overseas, but we are still in the beginning of the process.

"In any case, Italian offers have the priority. AC Milan? I have not been contacted directly by the Rossoneri, but that doesn't mean the two clubs haven't been in talks.

"I think it is only normal that AC Milan would want someone like Ilicic. The Rossoneri would certainly be the top destination."

Ilicic, who joined the Rosanero from Maribor in 2010, scored 11 goals in 30 appearances this season.