Alessio Cerci says that playing for AC Milan has always been his dream after arriving in Italy on Thursday evening to complete his move to the Rossoneri.
The Italy international landed at Milan's Linate airport from Madrid following a difficult six months with Atletico in which he had featured only sparingly after his move to the Spanish champions from Torino.
He is set to sign an 18-month loan deal with Milan, exchanging places with Fernando Torres, who has already returned to Atletico and started training with his new teammates.
"I'm delighted," Cerci told reporters at Linate airport. "I've been waiting a long time to be able to get here. It's what I wanted. The most important thing for me is to be back in Italy. It's been a long journey to get here, but getting to Milan means I have made it."
Cerci scored only one goal -- in the Champions League -- during his short spell in Spain while he only made six substitute appearances in the league under Diego Simeone.
He hopes his return to Italy will kick-start his career and boost his chances of returning to the Italy squad.
"I've already spoken to [Milan coach Filippo] Inzaghi," Cerci added. "There are still a few things that need to be sorted out, but when we get them resolved then I'll be delighted. I've got a great feeling and wearing a rossonero shirt is something I've always wanted to do."
Cerci was undergoing a medical on Friday before his transfer can be made official. He could make his debut versus Sassuolo on Tuesday, or against his former club next weekend.
"I'm truly delighted to be here and I can't wait to get started," he told AC Milan's official website on Friday morning. "I'll explain everything to the fans at a press conference, but what I can say is that I will give everything I've got, and that's guaranteed."