Roma: New Year move for Cassano Sunday 16 October, 2005
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Roma director Daniele Prade’ admits a January sale for Antonio Cassano is “inevitable” and reacts angrily to today’s defeat.
“We made an important offer that Cassano did not accept,” explained the official. “As far as we are concerned, the issue is closed. It would have been the second highest wage deal at the club, second only to Francesco Totti, and it’s not the kind of contract players are given nowadays.”
The Italian international’s current deal expires at the end of this season, so Roma must sell in the New Year transfer window if they are to get anything back from their £20m investment.
“After the statements made by director Rosella Sensi, I really think that a January sale is inevitable,” noted Prade’.
A move to Juventus is almost certain, although Real Madrid, Milan and Chelsea have also shown interest in Cassano.
The Giallorossi have other problems to contend with, as they have just eight points after seven games and today lost 1-0 at 10-man Empoli.
“This performance was frankly disturbing,” continued the director. “The players have to be more concentrated, as they are a great side, but are yet to prove it. Today we showed all the worst aspects of our game.”
Coach Luciano Spalletti was equally concerned by the latest setback, as Roma slipped down to 14th place in the Serie A table.
“I admit our performance was terrible,” said the former Empoli boss. “We deserved to lose and I will certainly have to change a few things. After conceding Francesco Tavano’s goal, I saw the players become afraid of defeat. They were discouraged and sluggish.”
source: channel4.com
Good news for the pro-Cassano ppl
