This
web site is an online diary maintained by azzurri.Friday 08 July
Juve open Vieira talks
SkySports
High ranking Juventus officials are understood to have arrived in England to negotiate the transfer of Patrick Vieira. Reports of Juve's liking of Vieira and team-mate Robert Pires have been widespread in recent weeks and it seems the Old Lady are now pushing ahead with a bid for the Arsenal captain.
And, to the shock of many Arsenal fans, the North London giants appear willing to let Vieira leave. Juve transfer supremo Luciano Moggi and vice-president Roberto Bettega have now travelled to London to open talks with counterpart David Dein.
The Italian champions are looking to pay no more than £12 million and could be willing to offer players in exchange to smooth over Vieira's passage to Turin. Stephen Appiah is one name being mentioned, although that is unlikely to have stirred Arsene Wenger into allowing Vieira to leave - although the mention of David Trezeguet could have the opposite effect.
Juve have insisted that Trezeguet is not for sale, but the French star is anything but settled at the Stadio Delle Alpi and the Italians could very well include him - although that is likely to be a last resort. Sources in Italy also claim that should Trezeguet not be on offer, than Wenger would gladly take French defender Jonathan Zebina - but Juve are not understood to be keen on letting the former Roma man leave.
With Appiah unlikely to arrive, it is claimed that Wenger has already highlighted one of Lyon's much coveted midfielders to replace Vieira. Mahamadou Diarra - already linked strongly with Real Madrid and Chelsea this summer - is the man Wenger is said to want and the prospect of walking straight into the starting XI could very appeal to the Malian ace.
However, Lyon, as they already have done on numerous occasions and will continue to do so, are likely to resist any new moves for one of their midfield trinity, which also includes Michael Essien and Juninho Pernambucano.
It remains to be seen whether Wenger will allow Vieira to leave without having a ready-made replacement signed or at the very least lined up. Despite the fact that Juve officials have arrived in England, Arsenal chairman Peter Hill-Wood insists that he knows nothing of the impending talks on Vieira.
"I've heard nothing about this at all," he said. "As far as I am aware it is just a rumour and we're talking to Patrick about signing a new contract and he seems very happy to stay."
Juventus in Vieira bid
Football Italia
Juventus have started talks with Arsenal over a proposed move for Patrick Vieira, according to reports. Bianconeri transfer chief Luciano Moggi was in London on Wednesday where he allegedly met with Highbury officials. Moggi openly stated his appreciation for the Frenchman a few weeks ago and he looks to have made his initial move.
Arsenal reportedly want £15m for their midfield captain even if the Turin giants are keener to proceed with a player plus cash deal. It is believed that the Bianconeri have offered cash plus a choice from Alessio Tacchinardi, Igor Tudor and Stephen Appiah.
Vieira’s proposed arrival at the Delle Alpi could in turn signal the end of Emerson’s stint in the north of Italy. He’s still a Real Madrid target and Juve could sell if they manage to sign Vieira, who has already worked under boss Fabio Capello at Milan in the past.
Meanwhile, reports also suggest that Moggi took advantage of his trip to the English capital to speak with Chelsea. The Stamford Bridge outfit have been linked with a multi-million pound bid for Juventus striker David Trezeguet. The Old Lady could use the cash from his proposed sale to sign Antonio Cassano from Roma or even Parma’s Alberto Gilardino.
Cassano will ‘never join’ Juve
Football Italia
Juventus transfer chief Luciano Moggi insists that Roma’s Antonio Cassano will ‘never’ join the Turin giants. The capital starlet has been strongly associated with a switch to the Delle Alpi this summer as his contract expires in 2006.
But Moggi has ruled out not only an imminent swoop but also any proposed future moves for the Italian international. "Cassano will never come to Juventus," he stated following today’s Italian Football League meeting.
Nevertheless, Moggi is known to tell the odd ‘lie’ when commenting on transfers and few are ruling out a Juve bid. It is also worth underlining that Fabio Capello said he would never join the Turin giants, when in charge of Roma, before his arrival last summer.
Moggi also used the microphones to dismiss more speculation that he is preparing to sell David Trezeguet to Chelsea. "Trezeguet is untransferable no matter what bid is tabled," continued the Bianconeri director general. "Juventus have the best attacking options in Serie A and we intend to keep what we already have."
Juventus confident of Cassano deal
Tribal Football
AS Roma striker Antonio Cassano is set to join Juventus this summer. A source associated with a business involved with Juve has told tribalfootball.com that talk is rife a deal will be completed for Cassano before the summer market window closes.
Juve director general Luciano Moggi was spotted in Rome earlier this week, fueling speculation that he had met with Cassano's key representative, Beppe Bozzo, to discuss personal terms. Roma need to sell Cassano this summer as he has less than 12 months to run on his present deal and all indications are that no new agreement can be found over a contract extension with Roma.
Emerson bait in Samuel deal
SkySports
Juventus are ready to hijack Walter Samuel's move from Real Madrid to Internazionale by offering Emerson in a straight swap for the Argentinian defender, according to reports in Italy. Arrigo Sacchi is a huge fan of the Brazilian international and rumours surfaced towards the end of the season that Madrid president Florentino Perez had enquired about Emerson.
Samuel's proposed move to Internazionale has stalled after the clubs could not agree on a fee for the defender and Juve may now make their move. Inter president Giacinto Facchetti admitted that the negotiations are in a difficult position, after returning from Madrid following a second round of talks at the end of last week.
"We haven't reached an agreement with Real Madrid," Facchetti told the club's official website. "The difference between what we can give and what Madrid want is notable." Juve boss Fabio Capello rates the 27-year-old Samuel highly following their time together at Roma, where the duo enjoyed winning the Scudetto.
Emerson, meanwhile, has voiced his desire to play in Spain and has spoken to Ronaldo and Roberto Carlos about life in the Spanish capital when the trio have met up to play for their country. In recent weeks he has claimed that he is content at Juventus, but if it became clear that the Vechhia Signora were prepared to let him go, it is likely that he would jump at the chance to move to the Bernabeu.
Fulham chasing Maresca
SkySports
Fulham have made an enquiry for Juventus midfielder Enzo Maresca. The Italian has already had a spell in England with West Brom and Cottagers boss Chris Coleman is a keen admirer of his talents. Well-informed sources claim the West London outfit have submitted an official request to Juve to sign the player, possibly on a long-term loan basis.
The Bianconeri signed Maresca permanently a few days ago after he was jointly-owned with Fiorentina. However, coach Fabio Capello is unlikely to count on the 25-year-old as a first team regular next term.
Juventus are believed to be willing to off-load him but could consider using Maresca as a bargaining chip in their own bids during the summer spending. Consequently, although they are considering Fulham's request, they are unlikely to rush into a decision.
The Turin giants could even decide to cash in on Maresca by selling him for a fee of around €4 million if they decide this is the best course of action.
Salas seeks Juventus release
Tribal Football
Marcelo Salas wants Juventus to grant him a free transfer. The Chile international has spent the last two seasons on-loan in Argentina with River Plate, but is due to return to Turin this summer. Salas has a year left on his Juve contract and wants to be released. Juve are keen to get Salas off their books to free up a non-EU slot.
Roma reject Juventus offer of Birindelli for Panucci
Tribal Football
AS Roma have told Juventus they will only consider selling fullback Christian Panucci for cash. While waiting on the outcome of their appeal against FIFA's transfer ban, Roma have received an approach from Juve about a swap deal involving Panucci and Alessandro Birindelli.
Panucci is keen on a move to Roma and a reunion with his former Juve and Real Madrid coach Fabio Capello. However, Roma are only interested in cash and are asking £600,000 for the veteran.
Lazio approach Juventus for Blasi, Masiello
Tribal Football
Lazio have approached Juventus for midfield pair Andrea Masiello and Manuele Blasi. Juve are considering Lazio's proposal, with a deal for Masiello almost struck. However, Blasi could be used in a deal to take the total ownership of Giorgio Chiellini from Fiorentina, with terms still to be agreed with the Florence club. Lazio and Juve representatives will meet in the coming days to decide the Rome club's enquiry.
Thursday 07 July
Juventus chief Moggi: We want Benfica's Miguel
Tribal Football
Juventus director general Luciano Moggi has confirmed their interest for Benfica right-back Miguel. The Portugal international was scouted regularly by Juve last season and has admitted an ambition to play for the Serie A champs. Miguel is in a contract dispute with Benfica and could be allowed to join Juve on a free transfer.
Moggi said: "Miguel interests us, I cannot deny it. But there are two conditions for the deal to happen: that is he can come here on a free transfer and that Benfica is in agreement. I do not want a repeat of the Mexes case."
Mancini ‘wants’ Juventus switch
Football Italia
Amantino Mancini’s former agent believes that the midfielder will leave Roma for Juventus this summer. Alemao, an ex-Napoli player, made the admission to the Romanista newspaper on Wednesday. "He left me in order to join Juventus," said the Brazilian after losing his client to Gilmar Veloz, who is also Emerson’s representative.
Mancini is a right-winger who enjoyed his best season in Italy two years ago under boss Fabio Capello. The latter left the Italian capital for Turin last summer, bringing Emerson and Jonathan Zebina with him to the Delle Alpi. The Bianconeri are also believed to be very keen on making a summer bid for Roma’s Antonio Cassano.
That may open the door for Roma to sign Udinese midfielder David Pizarro, because of the influx of cash, if their transfer ban is lifted later this week. The Chilean playmaker wants a move and a split seems close after he failed to turn up for pre-season training in Udine this morning.
In other transfer news, Inter have loaned former Under-21 left-back Giovanni Pasquale to Parma.
D-Day for Juve and Vieira
SkySports
Juventus are believed to have stepped up their interest in Arsenal skipper Patrick Vieira. The Bianconeri have admitted that they would love the opportunity to sign Vieira and are thought to have sounded out Arsenal about the Frenchman.
Juve would like to team Vieira with Emerson and they have asked Arsenal about his possible availability. Reports in Italy suggest that Juventus are looking a quick answer from Arsenal over Vieira as they are keen to move for another target if they get no encouragement from The Gunners.
Vieira is tied to Arsenal until 2007 and it would seemingly take a huge sum to lure him from the capital to Italy. Juventus have a limited budget this summer and it has been suggested that the maximum they could offer Arsenal is €20 million - which would be rejected out of hand unless players were also offered in exchange.
Reports have also suggested that Steven Gerrard's decision to stay at Anfield could reignite Real Madrid's interest in Vieira. The combative Frenchman has been a long-term target for the Primera outfit - but they had switched their attention to Gerrard after failing to land Vieira over the past couple of summers.
However, the likeliest scenario is that Vieira will remain at Highbury to see out his contract having previously spurned several offers from abroad.
Arsenal reject Juventus approach for Vieira
Tribal Football
Arsenal have rejected an ambitious approach from Juventus for captain Patrick Vieira. The Mirror says the Gunners slammed the door on Juventus after the Italian champions made another inquiry about Vieira this week.
Juventus in talks with Arsenal for Pires
Tribal Football
Juventus are in talks with Arsenal for midfielder Robert Pires. The Guardian says Juventus were in London yesterday with sources in Italy claiming that Roberto Bettega and Luciano Moggi were meeting Arsenal with a view to signing Patrick Vieira and Robert Pires.
Arsenal would resist any moves for their captain, who would be extremely unlikely to return to Italy anyway - where he has suffered racial abuse when playing for Arsenal - but Pires's future needs to be resolved and the Gunners would listen to offers of around £4m for a player who has 12 months left on his contract.
Arsenal aim to trump Middlesbrough for Juventus' Appiah
Tribal Football
Arsenal are ready to trump Middlesbrough for Juventus midfielder Stephen Appiah. The Guardian says Juventus were in London yesterday with sources in Italy claiming that Roberto Bettega and Luciano Moggi were meeting Arsenal officials.
Arsenal, who lost Edu to Valencia on a Bosman last month, are on the look-out for a holding midfielder to provide back-up for Gilberto Silva, and would be interested in brokering a deal for 24-year-old Ghana captain Appiah, who could move to Highbury in a swap for Robert Pires.
Middlesbrough are also in talks with Juve for Appiah, but would prefer to take him on-loan for the coming season.
Cassano linked as Juventus chief in secret Rome meeting
Tribal Football
Juventus director general Luciano Moggi was in Rome on Tuesday, fueling speculation of talks over the future of AS Roma striker Antonio Cassano. Cassano is now inside the final 12 months of his contract at Roma and could leave for nothing if he isn't sold during this summer's transfer market. It's been suggested Moggi's secret trip to Rome was to meet with Cassano's agent, Beppe Bozzo, to discuss personal terms for the striker.
Messina want Juventus striker Sculli added to Zanchi deal
Tribal Football
Messina are in talks with Juventus for striker Giuseppe Sculli. A deal for Juve teammate Marco Zanchi has already been agreed and Messina now hope to add Sculli to a double agreement. Zanchi's loan deal has been turned into a permanent transfer after he agreed terms on a four-year deal this week.
Vieri Paves Wave For Gilardino To Juve?
Goal.com
With Bobo’s transfer to Milan, Gilardino may now be on his way to Turin. The twist in the Vieri case has opened new scenarios for the Italian transfer market. Milan already have Shevchenko, Inzaghi, Tomasson and now Vieri upfront, therefore they could theoretically give up on signing Alberto Gilardino.
If this is the case, then the Parma striker would only have a few options left, some of which are less viable than others. A move abroad can already be ruled out; therefore the only contenders for his signature are Inter and Juventus.
The Nerazzurri are in the driver’s seat, however Luciano Moggi may be using Cassano as a smokescreen for the arrival of Gilardino. Milan cannot be completely ruled out, as the sale of Tomasson or Inzaghi could bring in the much needed cash for the purchase of the young striker.
Gilardino: Let me join Milan
Football Italia
Alberto Gilardino has again asked Parma to sell him to Milan but Juventus could still hijack the deal. The striker returned from his short break in Mexico today and immediately outlined his hopes for his future.
"At this moment in time I am still a Parma player," said the Italian international, who celebrated his 23rd birthday yesterday. "I have clear ideas inside of me. Milan is my preferred path but I can’t exclude the fact that other clubs can come forward."
Gilardino was hoping to have his transfer completed by now, but the Stadio Tardini outfit understandably want to get as much money for him as possible.
"I didn’t expect it to drag on like this," added the former Piacenza and Verona youngster. "I thought it would have been resolved after the play-off game against Bologna. I hope that Parma help me out because there is great friendship there and I want to leave on the right terms. I know my desire can be decisive."
Although Milan seem to be in pole position, his agent Beppe Bonetto has failed to rule out a Juventus switch. "Milan remain at the front of the grid and they remain in the thoughts of Alberto," stated the representative. "Christian Vieri’s transfer to Milan isn’t a problem as he is a replacement for Hernan Crespo.
"Talks are still going on but there is just £2.5m difference between what Milan are offering and the £22m that Parma want. However, we often have contact with Juventus even if there has never been an offer from Chelsea."
Inter are another contender to sign Gilardino as Nerazzurri chief Massimo Moratti has again confirmed.
"He is a player worthy of a great club," he stated. "There is just one problem and that is the expense involved. A lot has happened in this game and something could occur right at the very end when the costs of the operation may be forgotten."
Carry on Collina
SkySports
Pierluigi Collina will referee in Serie A next term after he was included on the list of officials for the upcoming campaign. Collina is widely regarded as the premier official in world football, but he was set to hang up his whistle in Serie A after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 45.
The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) are fully aware of Collina's standing in the game and have given him special dispensation to continue to officiate in Serie A next term. The FIGC have measures in place to allow them to grant dispensation to Uefa-Elite standard officials to referee over the age of 45.
Wednesday 06 July
Juventus chief Moggi denies offering Trezeguet to Chelsea
Tribal Football
Juventus director general Luciano Moggi insists they've never considered selling David Trezeguet to Chelsea. It was reported this week that Juve were encouraging Chelsea to bid for the Frenchman and even offered Trezeguet in a straight swap for Hernan Crespo.
But Moggi said: "I understand that people are saying that we will sell Trezeguet in order to let us buy Gilardino. I will cause controversy, but I believe Trezeguet is much better than Gilardino. I will say this: We will keep David. He is crucial to our entire attacking structure and we would be crazy to sacrifice him."
Juventus rule out Vieri return
Tribal Football
Juventus director general Luciano Moggi has ruled out a return to the club for released Inter Milan striker Christian Vieri. Juve defender Fabio Cannavaro has urged Moggi to offer terms to free agent Vieri, but he said: "I must repeat, we are serious only in strengthening where we believe we are weak.
"We have the best attack in the championship. Why would we want to experiment with it? I will not buy just for the sake of it." Moggi's comments opens the door to Premiership clubs Tottenham, Newcastle and Bolton to tempt 31 year-old Vieri to England.
Juventus continuing Reggina haggling over Mozart
Tribal Football
The agent of Reggina midfielder Mozart admits Juventus director general Luciano Moggi is using all his old tricks to land the Brazilian. Agent Dario Canovi revealed: "Moggi is a wily old customer. He is exasperating Reggina president Foti in order to buy Mozart with an offer that they will be unable to resist."
Fiorentina complete signing of Juventus defender Gamberini
Tribal Football
Fiorentina have confirmed the signing of Juventus defender Alessandro Gamberini. Despite their row with Juve over the co-ownership deals for Fabrizio Miccoli, Giorgio Chiellini and Enzo Marseca, Fiorentina were able to thrash out an agreement for a £2 million fee for Gamberini. The central defender, 23, penned a deal with Fiorentina this week through to 2009.
Tudor Wedding
Goal.com
Croatian national team defender Igor Tudor got married last weekend in his hometown of Split. The Juventus star said ’’yes’’ to Stefanija Lesic, a student of economics and a former model who also comes from Split in Croatia.
Police needed to intervene after the ceremony in Split’s St. Peter’s church when Tudor’s friends quarrelled with photographers over photographing the groom and his bride.
Tuesday 05 July
Crespo in shock Juve link
Football Italia
Milan’s hopes of keeping Hernan Crespo could be dashed with Chelsea ready to offer the player to Juventus. The Rossoneri are keen to hold on to the Argentine after a successful 12 month loan stay at the San Siro. But whispers in the peninsula on Monday are suggesting that Crespo could end up at Italian champions Juventus instead.
Chelsea, the club who still own the South American, are prepared to include the forward in a player plus cash deal for David Trezeguet. The London club are desperately seeking a new striker and have reportedly made the Frenchman their new priority.
Juventus may consider accepting the proposal given that they would not only net some much needed funds but also a proven striker to replace Trezeguet.
Crespo, who is keen to stay in the country after recently marrying an Italian, has already had substantial success in Italy during spells at Parma, Lazio, Inter and Milan. Should Crespo join Juventus, or not return to Milan, then the Rossoneri will make an attempt to sign Christian Vieri.
The latter left Inter on Friday after terminating his contract a year early and is available on a free transfer. Vieri is said to be in favour of an Italian stay in order to remain in the mind of Italy boss Marcello Lippi ahead of the World Cup Finals.
Juventus offered Trezeguet to Chelsea for NOTHING
Tribal Football
Chelsea have rejected an offer from Juventus to take their star striker David Trezeguet - for NOTHING. The Mirror says Chelsea shelved their interest in Trezeguet, even though they have been offered the France striker for nothing in a swap deal involving wantaway Argentine Hernan Crespo.
Blues boss Jose Mourinho is ready to cut striker Crespo loose, either in a sale or on loan - as long as all his wages are paid by the striker's new club so they can spend the money on a replacement.
Cannavaro tells Vieri to move to Juventus
Tribal Football
Juventus stopper Fabio Cannavaro has spoken with Italy teammate Christian Vieri about joining him in Turin this season. Vieri was released from his contract by Inter Milan last Friday and is sifting through a mountain of offers, which include Fiorentina, Seville, Tottenham and Newcastle United.
Cannavaro lunched with Vieri in Naples over the weekend and revealed yesterday: "With Bobo, I have an optimal relationship. I watched him at Inter and I know he was hungry for more action. I know he is determined and wants to play for a team that can accommodate him.
"I've told him to come and join us (Juventus). But of course the market is organised by (Luciano) Moggi ... I don't want to make his job more complicated."
Gerrard chaos alerts Italian trio
Football Italia
Milan, Inter and Juventus are monitoring Steven Gerrard’s contractual problems at Liverpool with some interest. The midfielder was expected to sign an extension with the European champions but a split now seems to be on the cards.
Gerrard still has two years left on his present deal but a summer move now looks likely, after negotiations between the club and player over a new agreement collapsed. "Talks have stalled and are unlikely to be re-opened," agent Struan Marshall told BBC Sport. That statement came following reports of a training ground bust-up with boss Rafa Benitez.
Liverpool are still hoping to keep the 25-year-old but it now appears that the England star will be sold – possibly before Liverpool’s Champions’ League tie against TNS on 13 July. "We want him to stay with us for life," said Benitez. "We tried last season three times to talk to Steven about a new deal and he said we needed to wait."
Chelsea and Real Madrid are considered as early favourites to net the central midfielder but he also has admirers in Italy. Milan boss Carlo Ancelotti is a fan of Gerrard but Liverpool’s asking price may be too much, especially as they are already expected to dig deep to land Parma’s Alberto Gilardino.
City rivals Inter are also an option even if their primary concern seems to be strengthening the defence. That may open the door for Juventus to make a swoop, especially as they do need a central midfielder. Transfer guru Luciano Moggi revealed last week that he admires Arsenal’s Patrick Vieira, but Gerrard was significantly already linked with the Turin giants last week.
Villarreal Want To Get Tacchi
Goal.com
Tough-tackling Bianconeri midfielder Alessio Tacchinardi has been confirmed by the yellow submarine as a summer target.
Tachinardi has endured a pretty miserable, perhaps his worst, season at the Delle Alpi and was largely considered the least effective of the team's four central midfield players. Indeed, all but Emerson appear to be very much available this summer.
The 30-year-old has spent almost all his career with Juventus after signing from Atalanta just over a decade ago, and he is likely to depart on a free transfer, especially after the recent acquisition of Giuliano Giannichedda.
Manuel Pellegrini is clearly after a midfield hardman with Champions League experience, and Tacchi appears to fit the bill with a contract reportedly already on the table. The midfielder was previously linked to La Liga in January when Barcelona came sniffing after their injury crisis, but Juventus had already allowed a number of players to leave and refused to shrink the squad further.
Juventus ask Middlesbrough to wait over Appiah
Tribal Football
Talks between Juventus and Middlesbrough over the future of midfielder Stephen Appiah have stalled. Boro chief Keith Lamb was in Turin last week for negotiations over the Ghana captain, with an initial loan deal proposed for the midfielder.
Juve director general Luciano Moggi was happy with the proposal as he had AS Roma midfielder Mancini lined up as Appiah's replacement. However, with FIFA banning Roma from any incoming transfers for 12 months, that has immediately put in doubt the capital club's plans of selling Mancini to Juve.
Moggi has scheduled a meeting with Roma executive director Rosella Sensi to discuss Mancini and has asked Boro to hold off until the picture is clearer.
Livorno Future For Zalayeta
Goal.com
The Juventus striker may remain in Italy and not leave for Spain. Marcelo Zalayeta will most likely quit Juventus this summer as the player wants regular football. It was initially thought that Spain would be his destination, but the strong Uruguayan player also has suitors in the Italian peninsula.
In fact, Livorno have asked the Bianconeri for the player and if Zalayeta accepts, there should be no problem between the two clubs to strike a deal, also thanks to the excellent relationship between their top officials. The Amaranti are also interested in Atalanta’s Stephen Makinwa, but the player seems destined to wear the Inter shirt next season.
Juve Duo Heading Towards Siena
Goal.com
Legrottaglie and Olivera are close to a move to the Tuscan club. Siena are currently one of the most active Serie A clubs during this transfer window, with the latest two players to feature in Coach Gigi De Canio’s shortlist being Juve’s Nicola Legrottaglie and Ruben Olivera.
Both players do not feature in Fabio Capello’s plans for next season, therefore there is a big possibility that the deals go through. However, the defender and midfielder must first speak with their club to clarify their position on this matter before a decision is taken.
Still, President of Siena, Paolo De Luca, has assured his fans that if Legrottaglie and Olivera do leave Juventus, then they will surely join Siena.
Lazio to land Cribari, Juve stopper Tudor
Tribal Football
Lazio are on the verge of a double signing this week. Udinese's Brazilian midfielder Cribari is set to move to Lazio on a Bosman after coming off contract. Lazio president Claudio Lotito is also locked in talks with Juventus for defender Igor Tudor.
Monday 04 July
Juventus to tempt Taddei
Football Italia
Juve could swoop for Rodrigo Taddei amid the uncertainty over Roma’s transfer embargo, but the Brazilian is confident he’ll stay in the capital.
“To play with the Giallorossi jersey is a dream I have had since childhood,” said the former Siena midfielder. “I grew up in the era when Falcao was a Roma legend, just as Cerezo, Aldair and Cafu went on to be.”
Taddei sat out six months of the last season because Siena were unhappy that he refused to negotiate with any club other than Roma, but his free transfer could now be in doubt. The transfer embargo imposed on the club as a result of the Philippe Mexes fiasco could yet include the moves that were already sealed, but only contractually came into effect on July 1.
With this in mind, it’s reported that Juventus are trying to prise Taddei away from the club as, technically, he is now a free agent. The Bianconeri had already been in talks with the Brazilian before he sealed his move and consider him a cheaper alternative to Roma’s Amantino Mancini.
“I am certain that Roma will challenge for the top of the table this season and I’ll give everything I have to help them,” insisted the player. “We have people of great quality here, such as Francesco Totti, but above all the solidity of the squad will be crucial.”
He is looking forward to one game in particular, as the Rome derby is already circled on Taddei’s calendar.
“I have played against Lazio in two and a half games and scored three goals, so I hope to maintain that trend with Roma. The Derby della Capitale is a fascinating fixture and any player would love to take part in it at the Stadio Olimpico.”
Juventus offer Maresca, Tudor for Udinese's Pizarro
Tribal Football
Udinese are considering an offer from Juventus for midfield playmaker David Pizarro. Juve have offered midfielder Enzo Maresca and defender Igor Tudor in exchange for Chile international Pizarro. Pizarro has declared a wish to move to Roma, but FIFA's transfer ban on the capital club has ended that ambition. Udinese have asked Juve for time to consider their proposal.
Chelsea 'offer £37m' for Trez
Football Italia
Hernan Crespo could yet stay at Milan if Chelsea’s new £37m bid for David Trezeguet is accepted by Juve. Bianconeri director general Luciano Moggi has confirmed that an initial offer for Trezeguet was rejected earlier this month, but the latest reports from Italy suggest that negotiations are continuing.
Newspaper ‘Corriere dello Sport-Stadio’ claims this morning that Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has lodged another improved bid of £37m to prise away the Euro 2000 winner.
Although Fabio Capello and Moggi have stated that Trezeguet is not for sale, it’s unlikely they would turn down the opportunity to bring in such an impressive cash sum. The Frenchman has struggled this season with a succession of injuries and had been in talks with Barcelona, but now seems set for the Premiership.
This deal would have a knock-on effect for several Serie A clubs, as Juventus would have the money to buy Antonio Cassano from Roma in a cash-only £17m deal. The Giallorossi can only sell players in this manner until next summer due to FIFA’s transfer embargo.
Chelsea need a new forward and their inability to sign a striker was pulling Hernan Crespo back to Stamford Bridge against his wishes. The loan period at Milan has expired and talks to extend his stay have hit a stalemate despite his offer to take a pay-cut.
“Chelsea are trying to convince me to go back but what I really want to do is stay in Italy,” he told ‘The People’ newspaper. “I'm having the worst summer of my life because I don't know at what club I will be at in two weeks time. Since losing the Champions League final the only good thing that has happened has been my wedding.”
The former Parma, Lazio and Inter star signed for Chelsea in 2003 for £16.8m, but found it difficult to settle in and only rediscovered his form at the San Siro.
Fiorentina chief Corvino won't hit back at Juventus' Miccoli
Tribal Football
Fiorentina director general Pantaleo Corvino has refused to hit back at Fabrizio Miccoli after the Juventus attacker slaughtered him in the press on Saturday. Miccoli slammed Corvino for not bidding properly for him in last week's blind auction, but Corvino said last night: "He has a take on the history of the situation that is incorrect.
"Only when everything is made clear, will he understand the decision. In my job, I must do the best for the fans and the club. Now isn't the time to explain the whole episode from the beginning, but I will say something about this when the time is right."
Azzurri: Lippi lines up Brazil test
Football Italia
The Azzurri are lining up an international friendly with Brazil at the end of this year, explained Marcello Lippi. “It would be important for us to face them this year, because we need a difficult test ahead of the World Cup,” said the Italy Coach to newspaper ‘Estado de San Paolo.’
Brazil are the favourites to win the trophy in the summer of 2006 after taking the 2002 World Cup and last week’s Confederations Cup. It’s believed the two Federations are in negotiations to set up a friendly match in the Peninsula sometime in November.
It would also suit the Serie A clubs, as this way the Brazilian internationals would not need to fly across the globe for a friendly. Stars such as Inter hero Adriano and Milan man Kaka are often at the centre of rows regarding international duty and this would resolve the issue for one of the planned friendly dates in the world fixture list.
Sunday 03 July
Capello pushes for Pizarro
Football Italia
David Pizarro’s dream of joining Roma has fallen through, so Juventus have intercepted with a new offer for the Chilean. The Giallorossi were preparing to sign the Udinese midfielder, but they are banned from buying any players for the next year as a result of the Philippe Mexes transfer saga.
Pizarro has made it clear on numerous occasions that he does not wish to stay at the Stadio Friuli for another campaign, but the embargo has ruled out his number one destination. Juventus have been alerted to the matter and reportedly lodged a new offer of cash plus either Croatian defender Igor Tudor or former Fiorentina man Enzo Maresca.
Coach Fabio Capello has pin-pointed Pizarro as the man who can bring creativity to the Bianconeri midfield and is an alternative to Arsenal’s Robert Pires. Some of the money for this move could be raised by selling Stephen Appiah to Middlesbrough.
It has been reported that director Keith Lamb visited Turin this week to discuss a £2m bid for the Ghanaian. It would be Appiah’s first European club outside of Italy, as in his career he has played for Udinese, Parma, Brescia and Juve.
Juve Gunning for French pair
Football Italia
Italian newspapers maintain that Juventus are pouring all their resources into signing Arsenal pair Patrick Vieira and Robert Pires. The transfer embargo on Roma has made the arrival of Antonio Cassano increasingly complicated, so the ‘Gazzetta dello Sport’ maintains that the Turin giants are turning their attention back towards reinforcing the midfield.
The need for a player to support Emerson became apparent throughout the campaign and Fabio Capello has set his sights on the Arsenal duo. Pires’ contract renegotiations with the Gunners have hit problems and the Italian newspapers believe he could be released on a free transfer a year before his deal expires.
Juve’s interest in Vieira has been confirmed by director general Luciano Moggi, although he suggested that Arsenal were unwilling to part with him. It is nonetheless reported that Vieira could leave Highbury for less than £17m, which with Pires included as part of that figure, would be an acceptable expenditure for Juventus.
The possible alternative is Inter midfielder Cristiano Zanetti, who disappointed at the San Siro this season and has always been a favourite of Capello’s since their time together at Roma. However, with the memory of their rash decision to release Fabio Cannavaro to Juve last year, the Nerazzurri have no intention of handing their rivals another player ready to be reborn.
Juventus eye Arsenal contract rebel Pires
Tribal Football
Juventus are weighing up an approach for Arsenal midfielder Robert Pires. The French international has seen contract talks stall with Gunners chiefs and almost joined Valencia last month. Juve director general Luciano Moggi is ready to meet Pires' demands of a two-year deal and has also expressed interest in Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira.
Miccoli 'betrayed' by Fiorentina
Football Italia
Fabrizio Miccoli has broken his silence on the troubled return to Juve and has slammed Fiorentina for ‘betraying’ him. “They say in my hometown Lecce that my mentor was director of sport Pantaleo Corvino, but as of Tuesday we are finished,” said the striker in a fiery interview with the ‘Corriere dello Sport’. “There’s no turning back now.”
Miccoli had said that being forced to come back to Juventus at the end of his co-ownership deal would be “a tragedy,” but the method of his dispatch was what hurt the most. The two clubs went into a blind auction – where each puts a figure into a sealed envelope and the highest bid wins the remaining 50 per cent of his contract – and the Viola offer was surprisingly low.
“Corvino rang me up one minute after the envelopes were opened and said, ‘We were unlucky.’ They offered £1m – that’s not unlucky, that’s just not even trying! Had they told me beforehand then I could’ve added another £1m from my own pocket to stay in Florence.”
Bianconeri transfer guru Luciano Moggi later crowed that he had signed the remaining half of both Miccoli and Enzo Maresca from Fiorentina for a combined £1.6m and the fans were furious.
“All our meetings about the future concerned my tactical position and how I was a key element to next season’s squad. It was all words,” continued Miccoli. “It was all going so well that I even asked if I could wear the captain’s armband. I’d have been so proud.”
The former Perugia player has put the blame for this situation squarely on director Corvino and was not shy about expressing that sentiment.
“This isn’t the first time that Corvino has treated me like this,” he slammed. “I recall when I first arrived that the Della Valle brothers told me, ‘In this club we value the man more than the player.’ In that respect, I don’t think I let them down.”
Fiorentina director of sport Corvino responded to the accusations. “The story that has been told is simply untrue. In our work, we must take into account the interests of the fans and the club.”
Roma embargo blocks Nonda?
Football Italia
The transfer embargo on Roma could include the already completed moves for Rodrigo Taddei, Sami Kuffour and Shabani Nonda, while Antonio Cassano is also affected. The Giallorossi have been banned from signing any players from overseas or within Italy for the next year as a result of their conduct in the capture of Philippe Mexes from Auxerre last season.
The suspension was imposed yesterday, but could yet affect moves that have already been completed, as the new season did not begin until July 1. With this in mind, it is possible that Taddei, Kuffour and Nonda’s contracts were set to begin at the start of this month and therefore fall into the embargo time slot.
Roma are attempting to buy themselves some time to register these players by lodging an appeal to the TAS – Tribunal for Arbitration in Sport – to postpone the ban. This suspension also has a knock-on effect for players that the club wishes to sell, such as Antonio Cassano and Amantino Mancini.
Juventus were lining up a move for the Italian international and his Brazilian teammate by offering money plus Fabrizio Miccoli and Enzo Maresca, but FIFA’s ruling means that any sales must be in exchange for cash only. Real Madrid have been alerted to the situation and, seeing their difficulties in capturing Robinho, could turn their attention back towards Cassano with a £17m price-tag.
Saturday 02 July
Juventus Sell Head Office
Goal.com
Juventus sold its head office in ‘Corso Galileo Ferraris’ to a local real estate for the sum of 15 million Euros. The profit will be used for the transfer market. The club will still continue to operate from the same building as lessee, whilst the money received will be injected in the market for possible future transfers.
Palermo capture Caracciolo
Football Italia
The Sicilians have officially signed Andrea Caracciolo from Brescia, while Livorno snap up ex-Juve starlet Raffaele Palladino. The negotiations with Caracciolo were already at an advanced stage this week and were finally completed on Friday evening, as Brescia have taken Davide Possanzini in exchange.
23-year-old Caracciolo scored 12 goals in 34 appearances over this season and has penned a five-year contract with Palermo. Other new arrivals at the club include Vicenza’s Massimo Bonanni and Valerio Virga from Roma.
There were reports that Caracciolo’s arrival would signal the departure of top scorer Luca Toni, but Coach Gigi Del Neri insists that his new tactical system will include both centre-forwards together.
There have been other transfer deals around Serie A today, as Livorno have signed Palladino on loan from Juventus. The 21-year-old creative midfielder spent the season at Salernitana and scored 15 goals, so much is expected of him next term.
Cagliari have added ex-Verona forward Andrea Cossu to their squad on a free transfer, penning a two-year deal. The Sardinians are also ready to announce ex-Triestina boss Attilio Tesser as their new Coach after Daniele Arrigoni resigned.
Siena land Lazio's Negro, Juventus kids
Tribal Football
Siena have swooped for Lazio fullback Paolo Negro. Negro moves to Siena in a free transfer and signed a two-year deal with the Serie A club yesterday. Also arriving at Siena are Juventus pair Matteo Paro and Davide Gastaldello. The two clubs have agreed co-ownership deals for both players.
