Comment: Gourcuff's Stock Rising

Milan look set to benefit from the French starlet considered 'the new Zidane'. One way or another, the Rossonero outfit will be grateful to the young Frenchman, who's set to return to Milan if his loan period demonstrates that he's mature and experienced enough to play for the Milan giants.

If Galliani and co decide against the reacquisition of the midfielder, though, his increased value will certainly benefit the club financially when his transfer fee comes through. Gourcuff won acclaim for his stunning 35-yard goal at the weekend against Romania, helping to tie matters up at 2-2.

International team-mate Thierry Henry believes that the player has what it takes to become an international star and this will be music to Rossoneri ears. Gourcuff has made an impressive start to his year-long loan at Bordeaux, with the team comfortably placed in fifth position in Ligue 1 and on a four-match unbeaten run.

Life in Bordeaux seems to have breathed new life into the 22-year-old playmaker, just as it ignited the career of Zidane 16 years ago. When Milan bought the player a few years ago they paid 4 million euros for him, but his value was recently estimated at 15 million euros and counting.

Milan stand to be rewarded for good youth scouting - perhaps three or four fold - if they decide to let the young French prodigy go. If not, they will benefit from the influence of a naturally gifted star.

Peter Pedroncelli