Ferrari gets English offer

It is believed that the mystery suitors have offered the classy defender a five-year deal to lure him away from Parma.

Ferrari could be set to exit the Ennio Tardini as they battle to ease their financial problems following the collapse of owners Parmalat.

Parma's precarious position means they could be forced to listen to offers for their captain and it is believed a bid of around £6 million could tempt them to cash in on Ferrari.

Liverpool and Manchester United are admirers of Ferrari and it is thought that the offer of the five-year deal has come from one of the Premiership giants.

Ferrari has attracted the interest of a host of clubs after an impressive campaign last season and his English suitors will face stiff competition from several Serie A clubs including the likes of Roma and Juventus for his signature.

The 25-year-old, who is in Portugal preparing for Euro 2004 with Italy, could raise his stock even further if he enjoys a successful tournament with the Azzurri.