Gabbiadini on Zenit radar

Russian giants Zenit are weighing up January move for Sampdoria striker Manolo Gabbiadini, according to Izvestia.

The same source claims boss Luciano Spalletti is on the lookout for a new striker who would compete with Alexander Kerzhakov for a starting berth.

As a result, the Italian manager is keeping close tabs on Sampdoria starlet Manolo Gabbiadini, with a view of luring him to St Petersburg in the winter.

The 21-year-old is the product of Atalanta’s famous youth academy, and he has recently started proving his worth at the biggest stage.

Gabbiadini was purchased by Juventus in the summer of 2012 and in turn impressed while on loan at Bologna, scoring 6 league goals last season.

Sampdoria then purchased 50% of the player’s contract this summer, with Juventus retaining the other half, meaning Zenit will have to negotiate with both clubs if they want to sign the player in the next transfer window.