Calcio Mercato: Ranocchia in at Inter

Andrea Ranocchia has followed Leo Bonucci out of Bari to join one of the worlds biggest clubs in Inter Milan. Both formed a rock solid partnership in the deep South of Bari last season but both now will stare across the pitch from one another when the Derby D'Italia takes place next season. The two hugely talented defenders have earned their call to represent two of Italy's biggest clubs although Ranocchia at Inter may find himself playing second fiddle to the likes of Samuel and Lucio next season. Bonucci however will no doubt find himself in the thick of the action right from the off next season which should bode well for both Juve and Italy in the long term. Indeed, after the debacle handed to Azzurri fans from Marcello Lippi at the world cup it is encouraging to see these two Italian giants having faith in some young Italian talent.

Perhaps that is more than can be said for AC Milan. Despite signing the highly talented young Greek defender Sokratis to their back line all they have really managed to do so far is apart from this is extend the contracts of Zambrotta and Oddo while trimming their salaries. No wonder then that Silvio Berlusconi received a barrage of abuse when showing up at Milan's pre season training venue Milanello in the last week. Banners such as 'we gave you are vote, now sign the cheques' were on display as the Milanista's vented their frustrations. And rightly so as a credible Scudetto challenge has not been mounted since the 2005/2006 season, despite winning the Champions League in 2007. In many respects the big players, the difference makers if you like are there. Pato, Ronaldinho, Nesta, Silva, Pirlo all remain. But its the depth in the squad and quality down the channels that is the issue. A few genuine talents could be signed without breaking the bank. Seems like the bank is shut though, and Berlusconi has no intention of opening on time.