Cagliari's Gaetano focused on survival battle amid transfer speculation
Cagliari midfielder Gianluca Gaetano has declared himself fully fit and ready for the club's Serie A relegation fight, even as reports link him with a potential move away from Sardinia. The 24-year-old, speaking after a training session on Wednesday, emphasized the need for "more hunger and even more courage" for the Rossoblu to secure their top-flight status.
Gaetano's comments come amidst speculation about his future, with Italian media outlet Corriere dello Sport reporting that Cagliari could consider offers for the player in the upcoming summer transfer window to raise funds. No formal offers have been confirmed, and the club's immediate priority remains avoiding the drop. Gaetano, who joined Cagliari on a permanent deal from Napoli last summer after a successful loan spell, has been a key figure in Claudio Ranieri's squad this season.
The midfielder revealed he is finally feeling at 100% fitness after battling injuries earlier in the campaign. He stated that the recent international break allowed the entire group to recover mentally and physically, a boost compounded by the return of several teammates from injury. "The more of us there are, the better," Gaetano said, highlighting the importance of a full squad for the run-in.
A significant part of Gaetano's development this season has been his adaptation to a new role. He expressed his comfort playing as a central playmaker, a position he says he has always wanted to occupy. "I feel very good as a playmaker, it's the role I always wanted to do," he explained. He acknowledged the demands of the position, which requires constant involvement in both phases of play and carries the risk of losing the ball in dangerous areas, but affirmed he is working daily to improve.
Cagliari currently sit just above the relegation zone, and Gaetano insisted the team must find an extra gear. "This team has always given everything," he said, "now we must do something more to conquer the points we need." His personal focus remains squarely on the pitch, despite the swirling transfer rumors. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining both Cagliari's fate and, subsequently, the club's decision on whether to build around players like Gaetano or cash in to reshape the squad.
For now, the player's message is one of unity and effort. With key fixtures ahead, his form and leadership in the playmaking role could be pivotal in Cagliari's survival bid, which in turn will heavily influence the summer's transfer strategy at the Unipol Domus.
