Allegri to buy striker if one leaves

AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri says the signing of a new forward will depend on whether or not Alexandre Pato and Robinho leave the club.

The Brazilians have been linked with a return to their homeland ahead of the January transfer window.

Allegri says they could both leave the San Siro during January, but insists no attacking signings will be made unless there is a departure.

“If Pato and Robinho leave, then we’ll need another striker. Five attackers is the right number, but it all depends on (chief executive Adriano) Galliani,” the 45-year-old told reporters.

“Then we will look at what the best solutions are to strengthen the team, but talking about this now makes no sense.

“If a player arrives then it will be an important player and if it is an important player then they would probably have already played in the Champions League this season.”

Allegri played down his chances of signing Mario Balotelli or Javier Pastore, who have both been linked with a move to AC Milan.

“I’ve never trained Balotelli and until I do I can’t pass judgment on him,” he said.

“He’s a Manchester City player and there’s no point talking about him.

“Javier Pastore? I don’t think Paris Saint-Germain will let him leave.”

Meanwhile, AC Milan preparing for their trip to Roma on Saturday and Allegri is confident of success as long as his team play to their potential.

“We have to play a good game from every point of view knowing that we’ll be up against one of the three best teams in the league with players that suit (Zdenek) Zeman’s game well,” he said.