Gaetano Berardi joins the Whites

Swiss full-back departs Sampdoria to join Leeds United on a 2-year deal.

Gaetano Berardi joins the Whites
Berardi becomes Leeds United's fourth summer recruit from Italy.
jamie-kemp
By Jamie Kemp

The 25-year old utility player signs for an undisclosed fee and on a 2-year contract, subject to international clearance.

The move comes after an unsettled season with U.C. Sampdoria, in which he only featured 5 times.

Leeds United owner Massimo Cellino spoke of his relationship with Berardi's agent last week, something which acted as a catalyst for his eventual transfer:

“He’s a good guy. I’m offering less money than Sampdoria, he’s playing in Serie A and played 150 times in Serie A, and he’s a national team player but he’s wants to come.

“The agent of Berardi is a good friend of mine. He (Berardi) said he wanted to go to Cellino in England. I said ‘how much do you want?’ and offered less. If you’re good, you’ll get a bonus. You have to show me that you want to come here, not for money.

“When you sign players, you can always raise the wage. You can never lower the wage. So if you trust yourself then trust me. I’m not going to take advantage.”

Berardi was present at Leeds United's pre-season friendly at Guiseley today, however he did not feature. He is expected to be involved in their next game at Mansfield Town on Tuesday night.