Milan up the ante as Galliani claims Arsenal are ready to deal Adebayor

Speaking on Spanish television last night, Galliani said he had received a letter in which Arsenal said they had changed their position and were now open to a deal for the 24-year-old. 

Shooting star: Emmanuel Adebayor, pictured during an adidas photoshoot, could be on his way out of the Emirates

'I will reveal to you a scoop,' Galliani told the programme. 'I have received a letter from Arsenal that says, "Following our communication of June 13, in which we informed you we were not willing to deal over Adebayor, now we are writing to tell you that we will consider a deal if it still interests you".'

Galliani made it clear he is still interested in signing the Togo international, who scored 30 goals for Arsenal last season. 

'If Adebayor decides to leave Arsenal, we are certainly interested,' he said.

However, Milan have baulked at the asking price quoted in recent days and Galliani admitted that the Rossoneri would struggle to compete financially if Barcelona — also said to be interested — entered the bidding race.

Earlier yesterday, Galliani was quoted as saying that the two clubs were far apart on a valuation for Adebayor, with Arsenal thought to want £35million for their striker.

However, he declined to provide an update on Milan’s pursuit of Barca playmaker Ronaldinho, whom Chelsea boss Phil Scolari claimed yesterday is going to Manchester City.