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European giants AC Milan are casting their net as far as Tyneside as they look to discover the next Paolo Maldini.

Newcastle United have made it clear they have upped their own search in the grassroots area of the city and suburbs in and around Newcastle.

But this summer the Serie A outfit will set up base in the North East with Milan legend Franco Baresi overseeing the operation himself as they scour through Geordie talent to see if any can make the grade with the men from the San Siro.

They will also be backed by sports brand heavyweights Adidas who will support the search.

Baresi is a regular visitor to Newcastle and was heavily involved in Steve Harper’s testimonial last year when a full house packed into St James’ Park to see legends like Maldini, Baresi, Daniele Massaro and Gianluigi Lentini.

Not since the days of Paul Gascoigne at Lazio has a Geordie boy graced the Serie A circuit. Then, the Roman public fell in love with Gazza as he showcased his talent in the then best league on the planet.

In an announcement from Azzurri Sports Management they said: “From 2015 AC Milan football training camps and summer camps for children of all ages boys and girls will be setting up base in the North-East.

“To be trained by fully qualified AC Milan coaching staff and AC Milan legends like Franco Baresi.

“Azzurri Sports management will be linking up with football clubs in their own exclusive area to help run AC Milan schools of excellence here in North-East.

“The AC Milan summer camps football schools of excellence are official AC Milan camps and courses and players will be coached by fully trained AC Milan coaches.

“Venues and dates will be announced soon through AC Milan and Azzurri sports management and the chosen football club venues.”

For more information and for any companies wishing to be involved in sponsorship opportunities, contact www.azzurri-sportsmanagement.com .