Neil Lennon plotting an Italian job at Bolton Wanderers

Wanderers are speaking with experienced Italian defender Francesco Pisano about a move to the Macron Stadium.

The Bolton News understands a deal is currently being discussed with the 29-year-old full-back, who played in Serie A for Cagliari last season and is now available on a free transfer.

Reports in the Italian press claim QPR have also looked into signing ex-Italy Under-21 international Pisano, who boasts more than 250 appearances for the Sicilian club.

But while sources at Wanderers insist no contract has yet been finalised, Neil Lennon is now looking a firm favourite to bring him to English football after 11 years at the Stadio Sant’Elia.

Cagliari were relegated from the top division last season, with Pisano featuring 14 times in league and cup competitions.

The defender has been unlucky with injury in recent years, breaking both his leg and his foot on separate occasions. Nevertheless, he was offered a new deal to stay on after relegation, and his impending departure has made national news.

Wanderers fans have been waiting anxiously for confirmation on three other contracts this week, as Emile Heskey, Lawrie Wilson and Stephen Dobbie wait to be officially confirmed.

Lennon hinted that one more signing could be on the cards, presumably Pisano, but his arrival is not thought to affect that of ex-Charlton Athletic man Wilson, who could turn out against his former club in a friendly at the Macron tonight.

But it could mean another player leaves the Macron soon, with Lennon confirming on Tuesday night that he is “right on the cusp” of his wage budget and looking to cut it further before the end of the transfer window.

If a deal goes through, Pisano join a small selection of Italians who have played for Wanderers, including Enzo Gambaro, Emanuele Morini and Gaetano Giallanza.

Reports in Italy also linked Wanderers with another free agent in former Parma striker Massimo Coda, but it is understood he is not currently a target.

Meanwhile, Wanderers’ trip to local rivals Preston North End has been moved to an evening kick-off for live television coverage.

The October 31 Championship clash at Deepdale will now start at 6pm after being selected by Sky Sports.

It will be the first meeting between the two sides in 14 years, the last being the 3-0 play-off final victory at Cardiff in May 2001.

Source

Re - Pisano,

I'm not being negative now, simply objective:

He's had three bad injuries in recent years and last season he played in defence for a team that got relegated.

Hardly inspiring, but we are where we are.

Just don't expect him to be a world beater is all I'm saying.

Breadman wrote:Re - Pisano,

I'm not being negative now, simply objective:

He's had three bad injuries in recent years and last season he played in defence for a team that got relegated.

Hardly inspiring, but we are where we are.

Just don't expect him to be a world beater is all I'm saying.

best right back we will have had for years.  since nicky hunt

Hunt would have been a better player if he'd removed the coat hanger before putting his shirt on.

I suppose, for now, all we can do is hope that Lennon can spot a diamond in the rough and knows what he is doing in the transfer market (especially on an a shoestring budget). Hopefully Whites fans are still posting 'In Lennon We Trust' comments by Christmas.