Fulham back in the picture?

June 16, 2002

Report from Christine in Argentina

As soon as Bati set foot in Rome's airport, the press started asking about his future plans. He said he wanted to stay with Rome and didn't want to answer any more questions after the long flight.

But the Italian press and the latest reports here (in Argentina) say that Fulham have now made a firm offer of US$25.5 million for him, an annual salary of US$4.5 million and a contract of 2 years. Franco Baresi (remember him?!) is now the technical director at Fulham and will be trying to contact Bati to pursade him to go to the Premiership.

It's no secret that Sensi would jump at this offer though Capello and Baldini think Bati still has a lot to give to Roma. A lot will now depend on Bati's wishes. One reporter says that while no firm offers were in the pipeline, Bati had no option but to say he wanted to stay at Roma, now that there's an actual offer on the table, he may well want to move on.

Bati's agent said the other day that he would be staying at Roma. That counts for nothing - the agent isn't exactly known for always telling the truth!!

Christine