AC Milan have signed veteran defender Nicola Legrottaglie from Juventus, the Serie A leaders confirmed on Monday.

The 34-year-old Legrottaglie had been a benchwarmer in Juve, and his future there looked even bleak after the Torino club signed Andrea Barzagli from Wolfsburg last week.

A statement from AC Milan read: "Milan announce the signing of Juventus player Nicola Legrottaglie on a permanent deal. Legrottaglie has signed a contract until June 30, 2011."

Milan had been looking for defensive cover with Alessandro Nesta sidelined through injury.

Legrottaglie is Milan's fifth signing of the transfer window following the arrivals of Urby Emanuelson, Didac Vila, Mark Van Bommel and Antonio Cassano.

The former Italy international could make his debut in tomorrow's match against Lazio.