AC Milan have expressed interest in Lazio defender Stefan de Vrij.

La Repubblica says Milan coach Vincenzo Montella is seeking a new centre-half and De Vrij is high on his shortlist.

Milan approached Lazio about a price for the Dutchman, but received short shrift.

Lazio president Claudio Lotito is adamant De Vrij is not for sale - particularly in midseason.,p> However, with Milan's transfer budget set for a massive boost courtesy of an imminent takeover, Lotito could be offered an irresistible offer in the coming weeks.