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Cassano too pricey for Samp Wednesday 4 July, 2007

Sampdoria have moved quickly to distance themselves from rumours that they are plotting an Antonio Cassano swoop.

The club’s director general Beppe Marotta was quoted as saying that the Real Madrid man was a target, but he has today insisted such a move is nothing but pure fantasy.

“A cunning journalist opted to use just one phrase from a statement I had given,” underlined the official.

“Cassano is obviously a player who would be of interest to everyone, but it would be pure utopia to suggest that he would come here.

“There is no negotiation under way for him, basically because he would not fall into our economic parameters.”

Samp’s snub has cast further doubt over the future of Cassano who is set to leave Madrid – even if it is unclear at this stage where he will be heading.

"It looks like Emerson and Cassano won't continue at the club," said Real President Ramon Calderon earlier this week.

"Cassano has had an unsustainable relationship with the club for the last couple of months.”

It seems that only the two Milan clubs and possibly Juventus could afford to sign the under-achieving ‘Talentino’.

Napoli have also been associated with a move for the Bari-born ace even if such a switch would only seemingly occur should a loan deal be agreed with Real.

Meanwhile, Sampdoria have confirmed the capture of Piacenza stopper Hugo Armando Campagnaro.

“He’s an important player, especially in terms of the future,” continued Marotta after he concluded the deal.

“We have been following him for some time after shining for Piacenza last season. We’re happy to have him.”

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