AC Milan are stepping up their interest in Real Madrid midfielder Sami Khedira. Milan chief Ariedo Braida was in Spain on the weekend to see Real thump Espanyol. While he attended the game to run the rule over Kaka, he was also hoping to see Khedira in action.

The Germany midfielder is viewed by Milan chiefs as the ideal long-term successor for veteran Rino Gattuso.

Khedira's future at Real is in serious doubt after being on the wrong end of public criticism from coach Jose Mourinho earlier this season.