Palermo win Amauri chase

Palermo have won the battle to sign Chievo Verona's Brazilian striker Amauri.

Palermo have won the battle to sign Chievo Verona's Brazilian striker Carvalho de Oliveira Amauri.

The in-demand hot shot has plumped for a switch to the Sicilian side ahead of the close of the transfer window.

European champions Barcelona had been linked with Amauri, while Udinese were also keen on the hit-man.

But Palermo have agreed to pay ‚é¼8 million (£5.4 million) to Chievo, with Amauri due to sign a four-year contract.

Amauri told Radio Radio: "I could have gone to Udinese, but I preferred Palermo because I know the environment.

"I know what is awaiting me having already played for Messina.

"Palermo can allow me to earn a Champions League place or allow me to struggle for something more important."

Meanwhile, Palermo have agreed the loan of Argentinian midfielder Mariano Gonzalez to Internazionale.

The club have also allowed Leandro Rinaudo, who had been linked as a makeweight in the Amauri transfer, to join Siena on loan.