Nesta flies the nest

Transfer deadline 
The 26-year-old, who has played his entire career with Lazio, winning the Scudetto in 2000, two Italian Cups in 1998 and 2000, and the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup in 1999, agreed to the move this morning ahead of the European transfer deadline.

Strong signings 
Milan had already signed several stars during the summer like FIFA World Cup hero Rivaldo from Barcelona FC, Dutch international Clarence Seedorf from Internazionale FC, Danish international Jon Dahl Tomasson from Feyenoord and Samuele Dalla Bona from Chelsea FC, but were keen to strengthen their defensive line.

The new Baresi 
Nesta had been a long-term target of Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti, who considers the Rome-born player the natural successor to Franco Baresi - leader of Milan's defence during the 1980s and early 1990s.

International pedigree 
Nesta has been capped 46 times by Italy and played in the 1998 and 2002 World Cup finals as well as at EURO 2000™ where Italy were losing finalists against France.

Champions League challenge 
His arrival will strengthen Milan's challenge for the UEFA Champions League. Having won the European Champion Clubs' Cup five times in their history, Milan begin their campaign for the 2002/03 trophy in Group G alongside FC Bayern München, RC Deportivo La Coruña and RC Lens.

Financial necessity

'A very big thank you'

Baronio on loan