According to reports, Kyle Walker recently underwent surgery for a broken hand, but AC Milan’s management is so satisfied with the veteran English star’s performance that they held serious negotiations with Manchester City while Walker was recovering.

Gazetta dello Sport reported that Milan, having already reached an agreement with Walker and initial contact with City, informed City’s management in recent meetings of their intention to permanently sign the English defender.

Previously, Milan hoped to extend Walker’s loan deal. When Rossoneri’s management realized Manchester City was uninterested, they made the final decision: “We will buy Kyle Walker.”

Walker joined Milan in January and hasn’t yet completed half a season with the team, but his impact has been significant enough for Milan to purchase him permanently. Despite being 34, Gazetta states that Milan’s management believes he can play for at least two or even three more seasons.

Kyle Walker joined City in the summer of 2017 for €55 million from Tottenham. Given his age, his market value is now significantly lower. Reports suggest Milan will offer less than €10 million for his permanent transfer.