Its a massive risk, a really big one. If those figures are true then its a really bad move, especially considering what we are now paying Del Piero...
Having said that even at 31 he's got a lot more to offer us than Aquillani, who has really looked a shadow of the player he was supposed to be. His experience and mentality will also be a positive in a dressing room full of mental weaklings. Although he is getting old Pirlo's game never really relied on his pace or strength, so I can see him carrying on at a good level until he is 35, maybe even further - IF this season is a one off in terms of injuries...