Bologna coach Francesco Guidolin, who has been linked with several high profile clubs, has scupppered speculation about his immediate plans by signing a new three-year contract with Bologna.

Since replacing Sergio Buso in 1999, Guidolin has overseen a steady improvement in Bologna’s fortunes, culminating in last season’s seventh place finish. The club have continued their good run this season, currently lying fifth in Serie A.

‘ I want to continue my project with Bologna until 2005 and sincerely hope that I can stay even longer,” said Guidolin, who has previous management experience at Vicenza and Udinese.