Real say no to Cassano

But Real representative Ernesto Bronzetti claimed on Tuesday the Spanish giants' interest has cooled.

"He will sign a contract extension with Roma," declared Bronzetti confidently. "He will be reintegrated into the side and he will leave for a big outfit, perhaps a foreign club, in the summer."

Juventus look to be favourites to claim the 23-year-old Cassano's signature should the club decide to sell him come the January transfer window.

Manchester United are reportedly interested in bringing Udinese midfielder Sulley Muntari to Old Trafford.

The 21-year-old Ghanaian - who scored in his side's win over Saudi Arabia on Monday - has been a consistent and powerful performer for the Friuli side this season, but it would take a substantial bid to lure him to England.

Marcello Lippi has held out an olive branch to Roma's Christian Panucci, raising the defender's hopes of claiming a place in the Italy World Cup squad.

Panucci has consistently been left out of the Italy set-up despite fine performances this season, but Lippi has always denied rumours of a rift between the pair clouded his judgement.

And now Roma boss Luciano Spalletti - a close friend of Lippi - has organised a clear-the-air meeting between the pair as the Azzurri coach looks to solve the problem right-back slot.

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