Nery Castillo close to Roma move, says agent
The agent of Shakhtar Donetsk Mexican star Nery Castillo has admitted that his client is close to agreeing a move to Roma.
The Giallorossi recently completed the capture of Real Madrid's Julio Baptista, and they are expected to make one more offensive signing before the end of this week.
Reports in Italy over the weekend suggested that either Castillo, Jeremy Menez or Florent Malouda will arrive at the Stadio Olimpico to fill the void left by the sale of Amantino Mancini to Inter.
Menez was believed to be the favorite to make the move, but now Castillo may have jumped to the front of the queue, with his agent admitting that Roma and Shakhtar are in transfer talks over the on-loan Manchester City man.
"We will meet up during the week," said Gianluca Marino. "At the moment we haven't decided the exact dates and I am waiting for a call from Daniele Pradè. Roma have more than one target and Castillo could be one of those. Daniele was talking with Luciano Spalletti regarding the technical qualities of the player and then we will discuss the financial side of the deal."
The Romans are one of two clubs in negotiations to secure the services of Castillo, the other being Real Betis. However, the Seville-based outfit does not appear to attract the 24-year-old Castillo.
"The Spaniards are waiting but Nery said he wants to play in Italy," Marino continued. He wants the Giallorossi because they are a prestigious side and because he thinks he would fit in well in Spalletti's formation. Now he is waiting for Roma. There is not much time left, one week before the end of the transfer window, but in the next 24 yo 48 hours we should have everything clear."
Castillo burst onto the scene last year in the Copa America, earning himself a big-money move to Shakhtar Donetsk. However, he struggled in the Ukraine, and after just six starts, he was signed on loan by Manchester City, in December 2007. He has also struggled at Eastlands, however, and has made just two starts for the Citizens.
