Parma sporting director Daniele Faggiano admits they've considered released AS Roma icon Daniele de Rossi.

De Rossi is currently available as a free agent.

“It's true, we did think about De Rossi, but we just couldn't afford him," Faggiano told Radio Kiss Kiss.

On released Marseille striker Mario Balotelli, he added: "Balotelli is someone we like, and so do many other teams. We're looking at a lot of strikers, but it's not easy.

“Obviously if he were to arrive, it would rule out a move for Roberto Inglese. We have an excellent relationship with Napoli, we work together to do the best for our two clubs."