Samp sign duo

Samp were runners up in Serie B last season, and have been particularly active in the transfer market, as they look to consolidate in the top-flight.

Friday saw the arrival of Marco Donadel and Marcello Castellini and both will add quality to the squad.

Donadel - a midfielder who was a key part of the Italian Under-21 European Championship winning team - arrives on a season's loan from Milan, where he was struggling to capture a first team place.

"I can honestly say that Sampdoria have been in my mind for a long time," said Donadel.

"I know they have been interested for two years and arriving on loan gives me the chance to get first team football - which I have not got at Milan."

Defender Castellini has played for Sampdoria in the past - before spells at Bologna and Parma.

"I had other possibilities, but I chose Samp because it is a good place and because I am a Blucerchiati supporter."