‘Gentile set to replace Ferrara’

(GSM) – It looks like Juventus have found a new coach. Claudio Gentile has accepted an offer to replace Ciro Ferrara after tonight’s Coppa Italia match against Internazionale, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport.

The Italian sports paper reports that Gentile left his home in Como yesterday morning for a two-hour meeting with director Roberto Bettega in Turin.

They discussed technical and tactical aspects of the team as well as the club’s current economic situation. Gentile’s criticism of Juventus in recent months was also conveniently forgotten.

It’s reported that Juve turned to Gentile after Ireland coach Giovanni Trapattoni refused to return to Turin for a third stint in charge of the Bianconeri.

La Gazzetta dello Sport understands that Juventus have offered Gentile €250,000 for four months work plus bonuses for success in the Europa League and qualification for the Champions League.

Gentile’s last job was as coach of Italy’s Under-21’s. He has never coached a club side before.

The length of prospective contract suggests Juve wants to make a big name appointment in the summer with Rafael Benitez or Marcello Lippi at the top of the list.