Napoli midfielder Blerim Dzemaili came close to signing for AC Milan last January in a swap deal involving Antonio Nocerino, according to his agent.
The Swiss midfielder has become a firm fixture at the San Paolo under Rafael Benitez, but did struggle at times to impress previous boss Walter Mazzarri during the first half of last season.
Dzemaili's representative Giovanni Branchini has confirmed that Dzemaili held talks with the Rossoneri, but is happy that he stayed to fight for a first-team place in Naples despite strong competition for places.
Branchini told Tele Radio Stereo: "Had Nocerino accepted a transfer to Napoli, then it would have been almost done for Blerim to move to Milan.
"Dzemaili, though, remained and he has done well. He did think he would have more space in the team this season, but he knows how to make himself useful and he's now waiting for his chance."
The 27-year-old has featured nine times for Napoli this season in all competitions, alongside helping Switzerland qualify for next summer's World Cup finals.
Liam Power
