FWD has learned that the London-based designer, who recently opened his first U.S. store in Manhattan's Meatpacking District, will be opening his second flagship this spring, here in Milan, at Via Verri 8.

Although a representative for McQueen's label in London said that they "are still looking at many locations in Milan," a source within the Gucci Group confirmed that the deal is already sealed.

"McQueen will be moving into the existing Yves St. Laurent store in Via Verri," said the source definitively.

"The only question is when."

Apparently, the original plan was to open the store in time for the March shows, but that is no longer looking realistic.

"It will probably happen a few months later."

The site of the store, just off Via Montenapoleone, is in the heart of Milan's posh shopping center.

McQueen will be situated across the street corner from Jil Sander and next door to Gucci's newest flagship, which has entrances on both Via Verri 10 and Montenapoleone 5-7.

The company has already indicated that future McQueen store openings will take place in both London and Tokyo.

The Milan opening is part of a grand retail waltz, or shuffle as the case may be, recently undertaken by the Gucci Group in Milan's exclusive shopping mecca.

The Gucci flagship, previously located at 27 Via Montenapoleone, recently relocated on the same street, to the much more spacious number 5-7 slot.

Gucci is still working on finishing phase two of the expansion and renovation of the interior, but 1000 square meters of the store are now open for business and will be honored at a formal inauguration party on November 21.

Number 27, although currently vacant, will be the future home of Yves St. Laurent.

Significantly larger than its current Via Verri 8 location and with heavier traffic, the space is a major upgrade for YSL and secures its ranking as the newest jewel in the Gucci collection.

"We are really committing to investing for YSL," said the source.

Also joining the line-up of Gucci-backed brands on luxury row is Bottega Veneta.

The leather goods company just opened its two-floor emporium in September at Via Montenapoleone 3-5 during Milan fashion week.

The next question is of course: When will Stella be coming to town?