Atalanta boss Gian Piero Gasperini is backing Mattia Caldara's move to AC Milan.

The defender spent last season on-loan with Atalanta from Juventus.

“It was an unexpected transfer," said Gasperini.

“Mattia had worked hard to prepare as best he could with the intention of joining Juventus, but he'll still be playing for a team just as big.

“After that, it's worth considering that he'll have players in company like Conti, Romagnoli and Kessie, two of them being his former teammates.

“Milan are working with the future in mind and that's something to be appreciated."