Brazilian star Kaka extends Milan deal

MILAN, Italy -- Brazilian international Kaka has signed a two-year extension to his current contract at AC Milan -- committing him to the Turin giants until the summer of 2013.

Kaka's goals powered AC Milan to Champions League glory last season.

The FIFA World Player of the Year had reportedly been a target for Spanish Primera Liga leaders Real Madrid.

The 25-year-old Kaka helped Milan to the Champions League crown last season, scoring a competition-leading 10 goals during their successful campaign.

The attacking midfielder is reportedly set to be rewarded for his loyalty by being paid more than the near $9 million per year he earns under his current contract which was due to expire in 2011. However, The Serie A club refused to comment on the financial side of Kaka's new deal.

Last week Kaka had told Britain's Daily Mail that he wanted to finish his career at Milan. "I think I will stay at Milan until the end of my career," he said. "I've got used to the life here and I'm settled in the city. I can't see myself going anywhere else, even if we never know what will happen in life."

Kaka, who joined Milan from Brazilian side Sao Paulo in 2003, is currently battling a knee injury and could miss their Champions League last 16 return against Arsenal next week.

Milan drew the first leg 0-0 at the Emirates Stadium, a rare high in a difficult season which has seen them struggling to achieve Champions League qualification through Serie A.

But Kaka's new deal has delighted the club's vice-president Adriano Galliani.

"Kaka has declared many times his wish to become a symbol of this team," Galliani said. "He is the best player in the world.

"He is a symbol of the football displayed by Silvio Berlusconi's Milan and he has decided to tie his future for a definite period to the Rossoneri colors.

"Kaka has taken this decision. I hope that in 2013 we can make him another contract in order for him to remain at Milan for life and continue to delight our fans." E-mail to a friend