AC Milan was quick to deny a move for Andy Carroll was on the works, after an Italian media outlet claimed the Liverpool striker was on the verge of a move to Italy.

Sports Mediaset, owned by Milan owner Silvio Berlusconi, had reported that the two clubs were close to agreeing to a season-long loan deal, with a view to a permanent transfer worth around €17 million (£13.5 million, $21.3 million).

However, with Milan announcing the imminent arrival of Bojan Krkic from Roma, club CEO Adriano Galliani refuted reports of a Carroll move. "I continue to say it, but you do not believe me, with the signing of Bojan the market is closed, completely closed," Galliani told reporters.

"(There will be) no trip to Madrid for Kaka, nor any signings like (Antonio) Nocerino last year. He (Palombo) was offered to us, but we refused the offer.

"Carroll? We have so many strikers."

Carroll's future at Anfield has been the subject of much debate, with the player keen to stay at the club and fight for his place, but manager Brendan Rodgers looking to move the player, as he does not exactly fit into the new playing style at Liverpool. Rodgers, however, is keen to sign another striker before sanctioning a deal for Carroll.

Meanwhile, Southampton clinched the signing of Emmanuel Mayuka from Swiss club Young Boys. The 21-year-old Zambia international forward will sign a five-year contract at the club, and will be given the No 24 shirt.

"Emmanuel is a lightning-quick striker who I am sure will excite the fans," manager Nigel Adkins told the club's official website.

"He is only 21 years old but already has a great deal of experience, notably so at international level.

"He will bring something different to the group that we already have here at Southampton, and I look forward to seeing him pull on our shirt for the first time."