Former Schalke defender Malick Thiaw is thrilled to make the move to AC Milan.

The stopper was presented to the local media this morning.

Thiaw said: "I always set myself goals, I'm ambitious. Being here is already a great result, but I want to keep growing. I know I have the best coaches here, excellent teammates to grow in every training session, learning the local culture and playing more matches as possible.

"I think I'm a strong player: I'm good at tackling, in aerial duels, in moving the ball, I have good speed and I have a physique that helps me."

On Milan director Paolo Maldini, Thiaw continued: "He is a great emblem. Milan have always had excellent defenders like Maldini and (Alessandro) Nesta; at the time I was not a defender and I also followed Ronaldinho and Kakà, but in recent years I then followed several Serie A matches and I know it well enough.

"I want to express my thanks for the transfer: I am very grateful for the 5-year contract. But it's just the beginning: I have to prove my worth in every match, but the contract is already a sign of recognition for me."