Express. Home of the Daily and Sunday Express.
Man Utd’s striker plans plunged into doubt as Southampton star reveals exit strategy
SOUTHAMPTON striker Graziano Pelle has made a frank admission: He’s missing Italy.
Manchester United are keeping an eye on Graziano Pelle
The 30-year-old has found himself linked with a move to Manchester United after a decent season to date with Saints, having already netted six times in the Premier League this term.
Pelle’s team-mate Sadio Mane has also found himself on the Red Devils’ radar with Louis van Gaal keen to strengthen his squad in January.
However, after spending much of his career abroad, Pelle is keen to return to his native Italy.
“My contract [at Southampton] expires in 18 months, one year after Euro 2016,” he said.
“Italy is the most beautiful country and it is that beauty which I’m missing.”
Pelle also thinks the presence of Serie A sides in Europe makes playing in Italy again an attractive proposition.
Sadio Mane is Manchester United's top target
He said: “Serie A lost some of its appeal, but lately it is growing again, it is visible abroad.
“They didn’t care about Italy abroad, I felt that, but thanks to Juventus in the Champions League and others in the Europa League, Italian football is back and in a few years it will be one of the best again.”
Sadio Mane - Spotlight on
Would you like to receive news notifications from Daily Express?