The Italy international is on City's wanted list and the Italian media have claimed Gattuso is pondering a move away from the San Siro in the January transfer market.

"I have spoken to (AC Milan club administrator Adriano) Galliani," said Leonardo. "I often speak to Gattuso and it's not true.

"There is no truth in claims that he wants to leave."

Gattuso has been playing less than last season partly due to injuries and also to Leonardo's rotation policy.

The 31-year-old has made seven league appearances this campaign and is currently sidelined with a muscular injury.

"Gattuso's priority is to recover," said Leonardo. "He is out injured and it's normal that a player who is recovering from injury is eager to come back to play. Milan's project is to use all the players we have available."

Gattuso has been with the Rossoneri since 1999 and was a crucial member of the Italy squad which won the 2006 World Cup.

Team-mate Ronaldinho believes Gattuso, who is under contract with the Rossoneri until June 2011, is likely to stay put.

"Rino (Gattuso) is a good friend of mine," he said. "He is the soul of this team and I expect him to remain here."