De Ceglie’s twin targets

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De Ceglie’s twin targets
Thursday 1 May, 2008

Siena’s loan starlet Paolo De Ceglie is praying for a return to co-owners Juventus at the end of the season and eyeing a place at the Olympics.

The 21-year-old left-back has won numerous plaudits for his performances at Siena this term and has played an important role in guiding the Tuscans to comfortable Serie A survival.

De Ceglie belongs to both Juve and Siena after the Robur purchased 50 per cent of his rights in June 2007, but one side must take full possession this summer.

“Obviously it would be magnificent if Juventus took me back,” he said in Tuttosport.

“The Old Lady remain my first choice and it would be a dream to go back to them.

“But I know exactly what I want for my future, I want to go to a club that have faith in me.”

Siena have indicated that they will demand at least £5m for their half of De Ceglie – a sum that Juve are reluctant to pay. A part-exchange deal could be the mutually acceptable alternative.

De Ceglie is also hoping to influence the Bianconeri’s decision by gaining a spot in Pierluigi Casiraghi’s squad for this summer’s Olympic Games in China.

“You have to be good and also lucky to go to the Olympics,” he explained.

“I have been both and so I want to get the chance and make the most of it. I don’t have an Olympic medal and to get one would be an excellent achievement.”