by Tim McGlone

There is growing speculation Melbourne Victory captain Mark Milligan will soon depart the club.

The chairman of the UAE club trying to lure the A-League star is 'confident' his club will complete the permanent transfer of the 29-year old midfielder.

Baniyas, based in Abu Dhabi, are believed to have activated the AUS$1 million release clause in the 2014/15 A-League Grand Final star's contract.

Mubarak bin Mahroum, the Baniyas chairman, said discussions had taken place over a proposed move.

"We have been discussing for a long time, since one month ago," bin Mahroum said on Monday.

"We are still talking, still negotiating some things. We are confident."

The 29-year old Milligan joined Melbourne Victory in 2012, and was a key player in their championship winning side this season. The versatile midfielder was named man-of-the-match in the 3-0 A-League Grand Final triumph over Sydney earlier this month.

Milligan, who was once heavily linked with Premier League club Crystal Palace, has represented Australia on 39 occasions.