Torino, Benfica enquire about Casadei but Cairo and Abate stand firm

Cesare Casadei is set to play a central role in Ignazio Abate’s new Torino side. It has taken only a few days of the club’s training camp in Pinzolo for the Granata coach to identify the 23-year-old midfielder as one of the key figures in his project. After a season of highs and lows, Torino believe the time has come for Casadei to make the step up and establish himself properly.

Benfica enquire about Casadei
It is little surprise, then, that his name continues to attract interest from clubs across Europe. According to Tuttosport, Benfica have made initial enquiries through the player’s representatives in recent days, but Casadei does not appear keen to leave Serie A. In January, approaches from West Ham United, Feyenoord and Real Betis were also turned down, reflecting both the player’s and Torino’s desire to continue his development together. Under Abate, the midfielder could finally find the consistency he has lacked under previous coaches, either as a holding midfielder or in a more advanced role behind the striker.

Cairo has no intention of selling
Torino have complete faith in the 23-year-old. President Urbano Cairo sees him as one of the pillars on which to build the team’s future and has consistently rejected every offer that has arrived. Casadei’s own objective is clear: to have a leading role this season and earn a regular place in the Italy squad. For now, all signs point towards another year together.