Luis Aragones was a step away from taking charge of AC Milan earlier this season, it has been revealed.

Marca says Leonardo was on the ropes after losing 1-0 at Udinese, a scoreless draw at San Siro against Bari and losing at home to FC Zurich.

The Brazilian was set for the sack if Atalanta had beaten Milan, but he was rescued by a goal from Ronaldinho.

Negotiations had already begun with former Spain coach Aragones and continued after the draw with Atalanta. But Milan's Champions League victory over Real Madrid saw talks dropped.