Ardon Jashari can 'shift the balance of power' at AC Milan after transfer 'soap opera' as ex-Club Brugge co-star hails 'exceptional' midfielder

Tzolis has absolutely no doubts that the "exceptional" midfielder will be a significant signing for the Serie A giants. The striker admitted that the Belgian outfit have "lost something" following Jashari's departure, but is happy that the 23-year-old fulfilled his dream of joining the San Siro side.

Jashari and Milan were involved in a protracted transfer saga that dragged on for weeks. The initial bid submitted by Milan was worth €35 million (£30m/$38m), which was rejected by Club Brugge. Bob Madou, the CEO of the Belgian heavyweights, explained that they were not pleased by the bid tabled by Milan. Indeed, Brugge were eyeing a club-record offer for their star midfielder. Milan stalled and Jashari vowed not to play for Club Brugge amid his transfer stand-off. However, Brugge accepted another bid earlier this month to bring an end to the soap opera.

Speaking in an interview with Pianeta Milan, Tzolis reflected on the Jashari transfer saga. He said: "The soap opera was just his... the team was trying to focus on itself. Ardon was definitely an important player for us, but he made the right choice by going to a big club. I wish him all the best! We're talking about a great person and an exceptional player who always made a difference in games, and without him we've lost something. But life goes on even without Ardon. The club has signed important players like Stankovic and Reis who are second to none. They will do well here."

On whether Jashari will do well in Serie A, Tzolis added: “Let's hope so! I hope he stays healthy because he certainly has the qualities to shift the balance of power at the highest levels and I wish him the best of luck.”

Jashari is expected to be an important player for Massimiliano Allegri, with the Rossoneri overhauling their midfield with the arrivals of Luka Modric and Samuele Ricci. The Swiss international could make his competitive debut for his new side on Sunday, August 17, when Milan take on Bari in the first round of the Coppa Italia.