AC Milan are reportedly interested in bringing Werder Bremen and Germany defender Per Mertesacker to the San Siro.

Milan have been searching around for a new centre-back following the retirement of Paolo Maldini, a problem compounded by Alessandro Nesta's continued struggle for fitness.

The Rossoneri have apparently found their man in 24-year-old Mertesacker.

Mertesacker, nicknamed ‘the pole' due to his tall, thin frame, made his debut for the German national team aged 19, and has already picked up an incredible 55 caps, amazing considering his young age.

The young German would add height to the Milan back line, and also bring plenty of top-class experience to the San Siro.

Werder will not let the talented defender go easily though, with the team from northwestern Germany apparently slapping a £12m price tag on Mertesacker.