AC Milan have clinched the €25m signing of Samuele Ricci, who is relishing the chance to follow in the footsteps of childhood heroes Andrea Pirlo, Gennaro Gattuso and Kaka.

The midfielder has swapped Torino for the Rossoneri, becoming the club’s first signing since Massimiliano Allegri returned as head coach in May.

Ricci, who made 34 appearances in Serie A in his final season with Torino, has signed a four-year contract with the 19-time Scudetto winners and cannot wait to get started.

“There are so many emotions, I have never been so anxious as over the last few days,” Ricci told Milan Channel.

“It goes without saying that this is an honour, because it is a huge club like Milan. On the other hand, there are going to be high expectations, it is an important season, so I will do my best to repay this faith that has been put in me.”

Asked to name his favourite Milan players, the 24-year-old said: “Andrea Pirlo for his vision. Gennaro Gattuso for his strength. For his elegance and technique, I choose Kaka.”

Ricci ranked second among all Torino players for successful passes (1,165) and fourth for both tackles won (21) and interceptions (25) in Serie A last term. His 609 completed passes in the opposition half, meanwhile, represented a team-high total.

A new Rossonero heartbeat