Fabio Capello has confirmed that talks are progressing between Roma and Inter over a proposed six-month deal for Argentinian striker Gabriel Batistuta.
On Thursday, Roma’s sporting director Franco Baldini denied any offer had come from Inter. But he now acknowledges Franco Sendi and Massimo Moratti, presidents of the respective clubs, have been discussing the deal.
“The offer was made in a phone call between Moratti and Sens, and that is why I can’t currently give an opinion on the likelihood of the move going through,” he said.
Capello had left Batistuta on the bench prior to Roma’s Italian Cup win over Vicenza and confirmed: “I left Batistuta out because negotiations are taking place regarding his move to Inter.”
The man the Italian public had christened “Batigol” has been short of form with only six goals to his credit last season, and has been in and out of the team.
He is anxious for a move to recapture the form that led to his nickname: he consistently topped the Italian league goal charts when at Fiorentina, and then scored 20 goals in his first 28 games for Roma.
With Inter front man Crespo sidelined with injury for the next three months, it could be the perfect deal for both clubs.