He's not had 30 starts in the top-flight, but Liverpool's sudden interest in Atalanta fullback Davide Zappacosta comes as no surprise to those who know him best.

Indeed, for the coaches who have worked with the 23 year-old, the fullback's game is best suited to the high-octane style of the Premier League.

Zappacosta has been on the books of Atalanta for four years, but it was only last season when he finally he earned his chance in Serie A. Before then, his career had taken him from the semi-pro environment of local club Isola Liri to Lega Pro outfit Avellino.

It was with Avellino, where he spent three years on-loan, that Zappacosta settled down as a fullback after coming through as a striker in his junior days.

"It's true, I needed to find a permanent position," recalled Zappacosta.

"(With Avellino) I was a winger, on the edge of a midfield five. Then, when I had some time with Atalanta, (former coach Stefano) Colantuono worked with me in a defensive role.

"Back in Serie B, (Avellino coach Massimo) Rastelli played me as a wing-back. And if we had a midfield four, I would naturally drop back to fullback. I am a right-back."

Zappacosta isn't alone in his admiration for Rastelli, who has just been named new coach of relegated Cagliari.

"At first I was not good at all," continued Zappacosta, "I was struggling with the movement, the angles ... but Rastelli was there to give me a big hand.

"He is one coach that takes care of every detail in a manic way. It was he who improved my defending in a huge way."

It's with Avellino where Zappacosta built his reputation and will forever be linked to - courtesy of a special tattoo.

"The tattoo? It marks the day of Avellino's promotion to Serie B - 05.05.2013.

"Winning promotion with them was unbelievable. An unforgettable experience. They, with my first paycheck, actually helped me buy my first car. I still have it!"

With Rastelli driving him forward, it was his impact with Avellino that convinced Atalanta to add Zappacosta to their squad for the start of last season. His introduction was to be gradual, but 12 months on, Zappacosta is a Serie A first-choice, has his first top-flight goal and just experienced the U21 Euros with Gigi di Biagio's Italy.

"It's true, I honestly did not expect to play so much. I came from the championships in the Pro League and Serie B with Avellino and when I arrived I expected they would test me," says Zappacosta. "Instead, Atalanta immediately gave me confidence and I found myself playing thirty games.

"On a personal level it has been an important year for me and I'm quite pleased with what I have done, although I know that you can always improve."

Zappacosta says he feels settled in Bergamo - and with Atalanta coach Edy Reja.

"Reja is someone who gives a player great confidence and self-belief. Bergamo is a great place for a young man to live," he says.

"Avellino was my launching pad. Now I want to succeed with Atalanta."

His sudden rise has also led to enquiries from bigger clubs, including Fiorentina, Napoli and Liverpool.

The interest of Reds boss Brendan Rodgers broke last week and was welcomed by Zappacosta.

"I have heard about the Premier League rumours and for me it would be a dream come true," he smiled.

"If they (Liverpool) really came in with a big offer for me I would take it seriously."

Zappacosta is being kept up to date on developments by his agent, Sergio Lancini, and confirms serious interest also from Fiorentina.

"I've heard from my agent but, despite the interest of several clubs including Fiorentina, there is still nothing concrete."

Lancini, a former defender with the likes of Bologna and Siena, has admitted he's had contact with Napoli.

"They asked about him at Avellino," he revealed. "I know they're interested. But I've not spoken to anyone there.

"Juventus are also - but they scout everyone."

Despite the sudden fame, Lancini is confident his client's growing profile won't unsettle him.

"The great thing about Zappacosta is that he hasn't changed. Even with Atalanta, he still plays like he did with his friends. He just doesn't feel any pressure."

Whether it's to Liverpool, Napoli or Fiorentina, for Zappacosta's mentor, Rastelli, there is little doubt they won't regret taking on a player who's spent more time in the Lega Pro than Serie A.

"For his qualities, there are very few players in Italy like him - particularly as a wing-back. I would absolutely recommend him (to any major club)."