Prandelli set to be named Italy boss

Fiorentina coach Cesare Prandelli moved a step closer to taking over as Italy boss today with reports suggesting he has signed a four-year contract to succeed Marcello Lippi after the World Cup.

Italian 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 today to discuss the matter.