AC Milan plot Alex raid

AC MILAN have upped their interest in Chelsea star Alex.

And the defender’s sale will provide Phil Scolari with cash to splash out on Brazil countryman Kleber.

Milan are desperate for a quality centre-back and have also expressed an interest in Arsenal’s William Gallas, 31.

But, at 26, Alex is a much better investment and the Italian club believe they can get the Brazilian for £10million.

That would give Blues boss Scolari funds to buy a replacement — and Santos defender Kleber is a bargain at just £2m.

Scolari gave Kleber his first international cap in 2001. Yet Chelsea face competition from Manchester City, who have the advantage of having Kleber’s friend Robinho already at the club.

Kleber, 28, said: “I had a year in Europe with Hannover and the experience was great.

“Robinho told me he was going to suggest me to the Man City board. If he gets me to play in Manchester, I will be thankful for the rest of my life.

“It would be a once-in- a-lifetime opportunity. I’d say ‘yes’ straight away.”