AC Milan boss Stefano Pioli has insisted that he remains confident of retaining the services of Hakan Calhanoglu.
The 26-year-old has played a key part in Milan's unbeaten start to Serie A, contributing one goal and six assists from his 14 appearances.
However, the Turkey international has just six months remaining on his contract, a factor which has led to Manchester United being strongly linked with his signature.
Despite Calhanoglu being able to hold talks with foreign clubs in January, Pioli has talked up the chances of keeping the playmaker at San Siro.
Speaking to DAZN, Pioli said: "Calha is fantastic, he is intelligent, he can move well, he knows how to attack and he knows how to connect the game. He sacrifices himself.
"I want him at this level, he is a top player. I don't think there are problems. Calha is with us and with the club. I'm sure that his will is to stay, there is a negotiation.
"The club, technical area, the player and I want the same thing, he has reached important levels and can still grow. He's a player to bet on."
Sitting a point clear of rivals Inter Milan at the top of the Serie A standings, I Rossoneri are unlikely to cash in on Calhanoglu in January.
Darren Plant
