AC Milan president Silvio Berlusconi says that more time is needed to complete a deal for the sale of his stake in the club to Thai businessman Bee Taechaubol, but suggested he could ultimately keep control of the club.
Taechaubol has been heavily linked with a takeover of the Serie A side, with reports on Friday suggesting that former Italian Prime Minister Berlusconi had invited the Thai broker round for brunch to discuss a deal.
Berlusconi confirmed that no sale has been agreed after talks at a Milan hotel, with Reuters quoting him as saying: "My main concern is to give Milan fans the guarantee that the new season will ensure a future that matches the heights of the glorious past.
"[Taechaubol] is a serious person whom I respect. Everything is under discussion, because there's still the possibility that I will keep 51 percent."
The 78-year-old has been considering a reported €500 million deal which would bring his 29-year ownership of the Serie A club to an end.
"We are now going to work on some minor details and we'll take a little bit more time," said Taechaubol.
The club's general manager, Adriano Galliani, said earlier this week that AC Milan will only be sold if the club will benefit from it, adding: "All that Berlusconi is interested in is the good of Milan."
Milan have endured a disappointing campaign under coach Filippo Inzaghi, languishing in 10th place in the table.
The Rossoneri are winless in four games, and have collected just 43 points from 33 games -- 34 fewer than league leaders Juventus.