The 33-year-old, who arrived at the San Siro from Barcelona two years ago, made 24 league appearances for the Rossoneri last season.

Zambrotta’s deal had been due to expire next summer, but the club have announced the stopper will stay at the Serie A outfit until 2012.

“AC Milan announces that Gianluca Zambrotta has extended his contract until June 30, 2012.” said a statement from the club.

Zambrotta, a World Cup winner with Italy in 2006, featured in the Azzurri squad in last month’s tournament in South Africa.

He becomes the second veteran full-back to pen a new deal in two days following the extension signed by his understudy, 34-year-old Massimo Oddo.