Italian international Federico Marchetti looks set to move to the Premier League during the January transfer window.
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Comments from Cagliari president Massimo Cellino to Italian media suggest Marchetti – who is tipped as Gianluigi Buffon’s natural successor with the national team – is set to be excluded from any first-team action with his club side this season.
The 27-year-old told Sky Sports Italia he had requested a transfer to another club during the summer, but Cagliari failed to reach an agreement – forcing Marchetti to remain at the Stadio Sant’Elia.
And Cellino has now hinted the shot-stopper will be sold during the next transfer window – despite having another two years on his current contract – with the two London giants and big-spending City expected to lead the chase.
“I cannot use him for Cagliari this year because he made unfortunate statements and expressed his desire to leave in a public interview,” Cellino told Tutto Mercato.
“In football you pay for this nonsense – you can often ruin even the best moments for yourself.
“I consider him a great goalkeeper and I have affection for him but when the market opens in January we must look at getting a positive resolution.”
Cellino said Marchetti was “still training as a professional” – despite being told he will not play this season – and hinted he was already offering the player out for a permanent transfer next year.
Despite rumours of several possible arrivals in the summer, Gunners manager Arsene Wenger failed to bring in a new signing – leaving fans’ scapegoat Manuel Almunia to continue as their number one.
City may also be on the lookout for a new goalkeeper to challenge first-choice Joe Hart if Shay Given continues to warm the bench at Eastlands and demands a move away at Christmas.
And Chelsea are also said to be interested in splashing some cash for a competitive back-up behind consensus no.1 Petr Cech. (Metro)
Marchetti would be an interesting addition to the Premier League, and surely a move to Arsenal would make the most sense? Maybe this is why Wenger did not sign a ‘keeper during the summer.
Manchester City do not need any more goalkeepers, and if Marchetti was brought in, then Shay Given would have to leave. Seeing as Marchetti is considered as the next Italy number one, it is hard to see him moving to a club in order to act as an understudy. This would rule out a move to Chelsea also.
At Tottenham, Harry Redknapp seems happy with his goalkeeping situation, leaving only a move to Arsenal being the most realistic prospect for Marchetti.
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