Cagliari president Massimo Cellino admits he's come close to buying Serie B club Triestina.

Cellino took his Rossoblu side north to use the Stadio Nereo Rocco for their Saturday 2-2 draw with Inter. It is a ground the club previously used in 2004 and is home to struggling lower-League side Triestina.

"It hurts me to see Triestina in Serie C1," he told Il Piccolo. "I want to do something to help them and to thank the city.

"About a month ago my lawyers suggested to me that the club was failing. However, I am convinced that we should not benefit from the misfortune of others.

"I saw that the team is responding and I am sure they will be saved. Then, I gave orders after my last experience at the Nereo Rocco to buy Triestina.

"I thought it was possible until the President of the Lega Pro Mario Macali told me that I was not permitted to hold a similar simultaneous operation to Cagliari.

"Someone suggested I go ahead anyway and buy them, but I like to work in the sun, not in the shade. Moreover, this would require commitment.

"Now, I have a moral commitment to help Triestina."