So what are we expecting to see Chievo do during the January transfer window? Well, lets look back on who they did sign during the summer months in 2013.
Three players that stand out for the Flying Donkeys and those men are Alessio Sestu, Ivan Radovanovic and Marcelo Estigarribia.
Sestu, now at 30 years of age, has appeared in 11 games during this season for the Gialloblu, replacing Luciano, who was released during the summer, by taking his role as the right winger. Sestu has also been used to support the Frenchman Cyril Théréau up front, but this failed in the 1-0 defeat to Sampdoria.
Radovanovic was a great buy form Atalanta, contracted until June 2016, he is likely to be key to any success that Eugenio Corini achieves with the Flying Donkeys. The 25-year-old has made 14 appearances and has looked solid in the middle thus far.
Estigarribia, who is currently on loan from Uruguayan side Deportivo Maldonado, has been impressive in Serie A this term. Providing plently of key passes, whilst also being a great little crosser of the ball, although he lacks in holding the ball up when under pressure in the middle.
Maxwell Acosty on loan from the Viola also showed great strength against Bologna in midfield, but he seems to struggle to get into the side and his form has dropped from the impressive game against the Rossoblù.
Potential/Definite Ins
There’s not much speculation or any rumours surrounding whom Corini is looking to add to his squad during the transfer window. However I do know and did say in my last club focus article that club president Luca Campedelli hasn’t got the money to spend and will have to loan in rather then buy.
Chievo ideally need to strengthen their defence and goalkeeper, Dario Dainelli is a good defender but the 34-year-old can’t be relied on too much as he likes picking up cards, and as for Christian Puggioni, who has already conceded 23 goals this season, he is an accident waiting to happen.
A loan deal with Juventus for Marco Motta and Martín Cáceres could be helpful, both have struggled to get into the side at the Old Lady and both are capable defenders. Whilst Juve’s Keeper Marco Storari would also be a good loan move for the Gialloblu.
Potential/Definite Outs
There aren’t many who Corini or the club need to get rid of during the transfer window, I mentioned Simone Bentivoglio in my last article because he just hasn’t performed. However I can’t see the Gialloblu selling him unless they can replace him.
Chievo need exactly the personnel they have in their squad, it’s going to be a tough second half of the season for the Flying Donkeys and they need all the help and every body they can get.
What needs to happen?
Chievo need to keep hold of key players such as vice-captain Luca Rigoni, as the midfielder has been Chievo’s best player this season so far; Alberto Paloschi who is such a promising young player for the club, and then there is the Frenchman Théréau, who in recent seasons has been rumoured to have been watched by AC Milan.
The Flying Donkeys already have a big enough squad to achieve safety in Serie A, which they need to concentrate on doing, Corini can then rebuild during the summer and get the players he needs.
Don’t be too surprised if there’s not much activity at the Flying Donkeys during the transfer window, but keep the faith! Chievo aren’t going down!!
Forza Chievo!!
Follow Nic Petruzziello on Twitter: @NicPetruzziello
