AC Milan chief Adriano Galliani has spoken of their deal for Alessio Cerci.

Milan were able to land the winger by sending Fernando Torres to Atletico Madrid last week.

"There were three things we had to do," revealed Galliani. "Torres was on loan at Milan [from Chelsea] and Milan were able to acquire him outright for nothing. I thank the English, Italian and Spanish FAs for their speed.

"Milan have given Torres to Atletico on loan for 16 months, and Atletico have loaned Cerci to Milan for 16 months. There's no clause which would allow Atletico to sell the player.

"The operation began on December 17, when I met Torres' agent - who I'd like to thank - and we called [Atleti chief executive Miguel Angel] Gil [Marin] to try and see if there was a common will to do a deal.

"I've been doing this job for 29 years and I knew from day one that the deal would be done. We reached an agreement with Atletico Madrid and the deal was complete on Christmas Day.

"It was a very quick operation and we were able to conclude it in a way which is beneficial for everyone.

"After four months he [Cerci] has arrived and we hope he can stay here. The relationship with Atletico will be wonderful for a lifetime.

"As for Torres, he was here for three-and-a-half months having arrived on the first of September. In football, small details make a difference.

"I was at Milanello when he fell awkwardly on [Adil] Rami's foot and was hurt. Quite by chance, two very good players like Torres and Cerci had three-and-a-half difficult months.

"The two clubs wanted these two players and, well, we did a deal.

"Torres was very nice, and sent a beautiful message to his teammates. I hope Fernando does very well."