Wenger in advanced talk to take over at AC Milan

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Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, who has promised to be back in soccer management at the start of 2019, is reportedly close to finalizing a deal to take over at AC Milan.

Renowned French weekly magazine France Football claimed on Monday that Elliott Management Corporation, the American investment fund behind Milan, has been in negotiations with Wenger for several weeks about becoming the Italian giants' new head coach.

Wenger could reunite with his former chief Ivan Gazidis who left Arsenal in September to become Milan's new CEO. /VCG Photo

The 69-year-old Wenger has been out of a job since he ended his 22-year reign at Premier League side Arsenal, but the veteran boss insisted he was not yet finished with soccer.

Asked when he would be back in management, Wenger told Sky Sports last week: "At the beginning of the year."

"It will seem odd to go somewhere else but I can't tell you (where) because I don't know where I'll be. I'll be somewhere－but I don't know where," he said.

"I have had a good rest and watched football a lot. I have many good memories, so I miss them," he added.

Gennaro Gattuso before the Serie A clash between Udinese and AC Milan at Stadio Friuli, November 4. /VCG Photo

France Football also revealed that Milan had offered Wenger more control in the transfer business at the San Siro and he could replace current coach Gennaro Gattuso within the next few weeks.

Gattuso's side have enjoyed an upturn in form after a slow start to the season, with three consecutive victories propelling them into the Champions League qualification spots.

(With inputs from AFP)