Sampdoria sports chief Beppe Marotta admits they're interested in opening talks with Real Madrid over a deal for Antonio Cassano.

"We have economic guidelines that we stick by, so we need Madrid's co-operation for the speculation to become a reality," he told GR1. "At the moment it is nothing more than an idea.

"It's all about putting a value on a young talent that is misunderstood and hasn't yet shown its full force.

"The boy has become a man and as such he needs to think hard as this is a very important season for him."