Serie A strugglers Sassuolo are interested in purchasing Brazilian Paulo Sérgio Betanin, more commonly known as Paulinho, from rivals Livorno.
Both sides are in the midst of a relegation battle in Italy’s top flight but the Brazilian forward is proving to be a vital player for Amaranto despite them being 19th in the table.
Sassuolo are just outside the bottom three and feel the signing of Paulinho could significantly help their cause.
Livorno’s director of football Stefano Capozucca told Calcionews24.com that his star striker is not for sale, despite the proposal from Neroverdi.
Capozucca said: “The negotiations started and were promptly terminated. We will not be continuing them.
“Sassuolo formulated a good offer for Paulinho, but the President has taken him off the market.”
It is no surprise that Paulinho has been taken off the market as he is top scorer for Livorno this season and has been with the club since 2005.
In 18 league appearances this campaign he has scored six vital goals to keep them within touching distance of survival.
Paulinho will hope to help his side halt a run of four straight league defeats this afternoon against Roma, although it seems more likely that the week after will be his chance to shine.
Next weekend Livorno host Sassuolo and it is a huge game for both clubs in their battle against relegation.
