By Chris O'Brien
June 6 2006

AC Milan are said to be the frontrunners to snap up Ruud Van Nistelrooy following Andriy Shevchenko's big-money departure to Chelsea. The Dutch international looks set to leave Old Trafford following a fall-out with Sir Alex Ferguson, and would surely favour a move to Serie A.

Speculation linking Ruud Van Nistelrooy to AC Milan has intensified following Andriy Shevchenko's departure for Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea, looking to win a third consecutive Premiership title, have splashed out £30million on the Ukrainian international leaving Milan with a void to fill in their attacking ranks and plenty of money to spend. 29-year-old Shevchenko has penned a four-year deal in London, leaving the San Siro outfit anxious to find a quick replacement.

"Van Nistelrooy is the man we want. He is one of the few players in the world who could replace Sheva." said a club source.

The Dutch international has told the press he plans to make no commitment to any club until after the World Cup finals in Germany. However, with Milan so desperate to find their new man quickly, Van Nistelrooy may be tempted to make the move earlier than expected.

The player has scored 150 goals for United in his five seasons at the club, but was frozen out of first-team affairs towards the end of last season and looks certain to part company with Old Trafford before the start of next season.