A-League side Sydney FC have dismissed reports that star striker Alessandro Del Piero could move to Brazilian club Flamengo, saying talks to extend his stay in Australia are under way.
Sydney reacted after reports that Zico, a member of the Flamengo board, was in talks with Del Pireo’s brother Stefano, who acts as the player’s agent, about a move to Brazil on a two-year contract.
But Tony Pignata, the Australian club’s chief executive officer, told the Daily Telegraph: "Stefano told me yesterday he hadn't been to Rio, and has told me Alessandro is only in talks with us.
"He said it's pure speculation [about Flamengo], and he's coming here within the next week, at which point I expect us to wrap everything up.
"We want him to stay, and he wants to stay. It's only a few marketing issues we have to resolve."
Del Piero has become an instant hit at Sydney, scoring ten goals in 16 games despite the team’s disappointing season so far.
