AC Milan coach Leonardo admits he tried to land Barcelona striker Keirrison ahead of Fiorentina.

The Brazilian forward joined the Viola on Monday on a two-year loan deal from the Primera Division giants.

"I am happy that Keirrison has arrived to Serie A," said Leonardo.

"Not so much because he joins Fiorentina and my team could face him, but because I am strongly convinced of his potential.

"I know that Milan tried to sign him but I have no regrets. I have a strong team.

"I'm just curious to see Keirrison play in Serie A."

The 21-year-old joined Barcelona last summer on a 14million euro deal from Palmeiras. He was loaned to Portuguese side Benfica earlier this season before making the switch to Florence.