Alessandro Nesta is struggling to shake off his chronic back problem. Even if he is able to improve his current condition, a relapse is a distinct possibility, making defensive cover is a very important consideration for Milan.

Unfortunately, latest reports indicate that Nesta is not improving and he could be forced to retire, which would be a harsh blow to both club and player.

The Rossoneri have managed to capture one of the best young defensive prospects in Thiago Silva, but the Brazilian is unable to play for the club until the end of the season due to Milan having filled their quota of non-EU players for the season, forcing the Milan giants to search the market and perhaps swoop for a January signing to cover for their aging and ailing back line.

It is reported that the Rossoneri are prepared to offer €16 million for Frenchman Philippe Mexes. Previously it was believed that the Diavoli were prepared to use the bargaining chips of Daniele Bonera, Marek Jankulovski, or maybe even Yoann Gourcuff - who has done phenomenally well since his loan move to Bordeaux - to sweeten the deal.

The inclusion of the French youngster, dubbed the 'new Zidane', may be enough to convince the capital club to release the central defender and send him off to meet his new Rossoneri team mates in January.

Peter Pedroncelli, Goal.com