Serie A

Napoli Push For Atalanta Midfielder Cigarini - Reports

Napoli are reportedly chasing Atalanta's talented bench-warming star Luca Cigarini but will have to negotiate his transfer with co-owners Parma, too.

Jan 15, 2009 10:43:24 AM

Cigarini e Dessena, Parma (Foto Grazia Neri)

Photo Gallery

Zoom

Cigarini e Dessena, Parma (Foto Grazia Neri)

Teams

Players

Luca Cigarini

Atalanta snapped up Luca Cigarini from Parma for €5 million in a co-ownership deal last summer following the Ducali’s relegation to Serie B.

The skilled 22-year-old has failed to earn a regular starting shirt at the Stadio Atleti Azzurri d'Italia to date but there is little doubting his undisputed quality and, as a result, a number of clubs are said to be keeping tabs on him.

Napoli's apparent interest in the player has intensified over the last few days and, as a result, they have been made favourties to secure his signature. Vesuviani director of sport Pierpaolo Marino is allegedly in negotiations with Parma to buy their half of Cigarini this month.

It is suggested that Napoli are prepared to bid a small amount of money plus Uruguayan midfielder Mariano Bogliacino, who has long been a target for the Emiliani.

As for Atalanta, Napoli hope to persuade them to release their grip on Cigarini by offering the other half of full-back György Garics, who moved to the Orobici in a co-ownership deal in the summer for €2.5m, and might also throw in the deal striker Emanuele Calaiò, who is currently on loan at Siena.

Vince Masiello, Goal.com