Prandelli to replace Lippi as Italy boss

FIORENTINA coach Cesare Prandelli has signed a four-year contract to take over as Italy boss when Marcello Lippi steps down after the World Cup.

Italian football federation president Giancarlo Abete was given permission by the Serie A club earlier this month to talk to Prandelli, and the two men met in Rome yesterday to discuss the matter.

An FIGC statement confirmed the pair had reached agreement.