MILAN (Reuters) - AC Milan will try to sign Barcelona's Ronaldinho, the Italian club's president Silvio Berlusconi said on Saturday.

The Brazilian, who will miss the rest of the season after tearing a leg muscle, has had a disappointing campaign at the Nou Camp and media reports say the 28-year-old is poised to leave.

Milan, languishing outside a Champions League place in Serie A, have been long-time admirers of the forward and have had trouble scoring and creating chances this term. Milan striker Ronaldo has also been ruled out long term with a knee injury.

Asked if Milan would buy Ronaldinho, Berlusconi told Italian news service ANSA: "I hope so, I think so. We will try to take him."

Ronaldinho's agent and brother Robert de Assis was photographed entering a restaurant with Milan vice president Adriano Galliani earlier this week. The forward has also been linked with a move to England in the media.

Berlusconi also gave his backing to under fire Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti and struggling forward Alberto Gilardino.

"Ancelotti is a great coach. I hope he stays at Milan. Gilardino is a good striker and we have faith in him. We are keeping him," the club owner said.

(Writing by Mark Meadows, editing by Justin Palmer)