Southampton forward Graziano Pelle is close to completing a move to China, according to claims in the Italian media. Pelle’s stock has risen following his performances for Italy in this summer’s Euros, and the Premier League side could now look to cash in on the player.
TMW have claimed this morning Pelle is on the verge of joining Shandong in a deal worth €40m. That figure is to be between the club and the player, but TMW are unclear whether that means Southampton and Pelle are sharing the amount.
Pelle has been one of Ronald Koeman’s most successful signings during the Dutchman’s time with the Premier League side.
However, Pelle will not extend his current contract beyond 2017, which has led to speculation in the past six months he would be leaving Southampton this summer.
Pelle has been linked with a move back to his home country, but it now seems the financial package being offered by Shandong could land the Chinese club the Italy international.
Money talks, but a return to Italy surely has attractions too.
