Antonio Cassano has confirmed that he wants to join Real Madrid, according to reports in Spain.
Spanish daily Marca reported today that the 24-year-old has chosen Los Merengues over Inter and Juventus. "Yes, I like Real Madrid," he said. "It’s the best side in the world."
This is the first indication from Cassano of his preferred destination once he has broken ties with the club from the capital.
It had been thought that the Bari-born forward was hoping for a move to an Italian outfit – in order to boost his chances of winning a World Cup place.
Inter, the team he supported as a boy, was believed to be the club of his choice despite interest from Italian champions Juventus.
However, as reported by Football Italia recently, it now seems that Real have become front runners to sign the controversial contract rebel, who is seen as a replacement for the injured Raul.
Spain’s other leading publication, AS, reports that the Madrid club have so tabled an offer of £2.4m for the player who cost Roma £20m in 2001.
The Giallorossi, meanwhile, are said to be holding out for at least £4m for the starlet who could leave for nothing at the end of the current campaign.