AC Milan announced on Tuesday that they have signed a six-month contract with Netherlands captain Mark van Bommel on a free transfer.

The 34-year-old midfielder asked to be released from his contract at Bayern after being sidelined by coach Louis van Gaal.

Van Bommel, who has played 66 times for his country, said in a statement: "I am leaving FC Bayern with a heavy heart but with head held high."

Van Bommel's contract was due to expire at the end of the season.

Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri has confirmed both Mark van Bommel and Urby Emanuelson, another new arrival of this winter, are likely to start against Sampdoria.

"Emanuelson will play, and there is a 90 percent chance for Van Bommel," Allegri told the press on Tuesday.