Foreign clubs keen on Denni

Valletta playmaker Denni is the subject of interest from clubs in Brazil, Japan and Thailand.

Santo Andrè, one of Denni’s former clubs, are keen to take the Brazilian on loan until October with an option to make his move permanent while the other suitors are willing to sign him outright.

This is not the first time that Denni has caught the attention of an overseas club but the Brazilian had always stressed that he’s happy at Valletta.

The scenario is different this time, however, as Santo Andrè are giving Denni the chance to continue his career in his home country while the financial terms offered by the other two unnamed clubs are very attractive.

Contacted by The Times yesterday, Denni confirmed that he has received overtures from three foreign clubs.

“I’ve received a proposal to join Santo Andrè,” Denni said. “I’m obviously interested in going back to Brazil, especially at a time when the clubs there are relying more and more on Brazilian players.

“The approach from Santo Andrè is not the only offer I’ve received in the last few weeks. A club in Thailand and one in Japan also want me to join them.”

Denni, whose deal with Valletta has another two-and-a-half years left to run, admitted that the offers on table are too good to turn down but insisted that he’d willingly pledge his future to Valletta if they hand him an improved deal.

“I must say that I’m considering these proposals very seriously because some of them are very good financially,” Denni said.

“On the other hand, the offer from Brazil is very appealing because it’s my home country and I’d be close to my family.

“My future lies in the hands of Victor Sciriha, the Valletta president.

“As I’ve said on many occasions, I’m happy at Valletta but, to be honest, the difference between the wages I’ve been offered and what I’m earning here is very big.

“If Mr Sciriha wants to sit down with me and discuss an improved contract, I’d have no reason to leave Valletta because I’m settled here.

“I wouldn’t even think about other clubs if I get a better deal with Valletta but I have to consider the financial aspect at this stage of my career.”

Denni, 29, is widely regarded as one of the most talented foreigners in the BOV Premier League.

The impish forward first came to Malta in January 2009 to play for Tarxien Rainbows.

After a successful 18-month spell with Tarxien, Denni moved to Valletta in the summer of last year and helped them win the BOV Premier League title in his first season with the club.

Spartans release Silva, Cadu

Meanwhile, Ħamrun Spartans have terminated the contracts of Portuguese winger Luis Silva and Brazilian Cadu after both failed to live up to expectations.

Cadu is expected to join Dingli Swallows while Silva has been linked with a move to Vittoriosa Stars, also of Division One.