Sampdoria clinch deal for Real Madrid striker Cassano

Sampdoria are expected to announce today the signing coup of Real Madrid striker Antonio Cassano.

Last night, the two clubs reached an agreement over a 12-month loan for the Italian forward, with Samp having the option to make the deal permanent at the end of this season.

Samp will pay £800,000 of Cassano's salary, with the remaining £2 million being covered by Real.

Samp chief Beppe Marotta said: "By now we have passed all obstacles. We believe a lot in this operation."